Fun things to do in Vigan: 18 fun attractions and activities

The moment you step into Calle Crisologo, it feels like you’ve been transported to medieval Spain. This is the iconic spot in Vigan! Packed with tourists, horse-drawn carriages, and shops—it’s a joy just to walk around. If you’re hoping to take photos without crowds, come early in the morning. But honestly, the lively atmosphere with people in the background also makes for beautiful shots.

Nestled in the heart of Vigan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Calle Crisologo stands as a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Recently, I had the pleasure of wandering through this iconic street, and it was an experience that truly transported me back in time. As I walked along the quaint cobblestone streets, I was enchante by the beautiful Spanish colonial-era buildings that line the road. Every ancestral home is a testament to the era's artistry, with intricate designs and bright colors that reflects the craftsmanship of the past. The mood is brimming with the sounds of local vendors and artisans who add a festive zest to the nostalgic atmosphere. Calle Crisologo offers more than just a glimpse into the past; it provides an authentic experience for the tourists. My visit to Calle Crisologo was a wonderful ride through the past,replete with charm and cultural heritage. It's an experience where past blends smoothly with the present, making it a true gem in the heart of the Philippines.

Wonderful place to visit if you want to experience the feeling of Spanish colonial times. The cobblestone streets and historic Spanish houses create a truly immersive atmosphere. While the kalesas (horse-drawn carriages) add to the charm, it was hard not to feel bad for the horses, who looked tired. I sincerely hope they are well cared for after working all day. I chose not to ride one.

Visiting Calle Crisologo was a truly wonderful experience. It is somehow very high energy while also being very low-key and relaxing at the same time. The streets are beautiful, the shops are wonderful, and everyone there seems to just be happy. This includes the people working at the local restaurants and tourist booths and also the people like myself that are tourist. This is a wonderful walk morning, afternoon, and especially in the evening after the sun has gone down. The horse-drawn carriage rides are a must and it's important to just really slow down and enjoy this beautiful little piece of the Philippines.

Heritage streets, Spanish-era ancestral homes, which allows you to experience history with every step. Take a horse-drawn carriage and let the rider show you the touristic spots. It's the best way to explore the place. The rider will wait for you in every tourist attraction. Feel free to ask, and don't forget to tip well because they deserve it. Nice spot to get souvenirs and gifts from vigan for your loved ones. The place has many restaurants and resto-bars.

I have visited Calle Crisologo a few times and it's one of the reasons I fell in love with Ilocos as it features a part of Philippine history which gives a nostalgic feeling considering the cobblestones, structures and even the kalesa around. Visiting during the daytimr can be a bit uncomfortable because of the sunny weather and I've noticed that there is less to see but only a few people visiting which can be a good thing for taking photos. But, I prefer visiting at night as it becomes alive with all the people, the lights and outdoor seatings in nearby restaurants have outdoor seating making the experience wonderful. Take note though that it may be crowded and finding a place to take the right photo may be quite difficult. Parking is also limited and recently noticed pay parking signs around the area. There are also hotels nearby bit noticed how some of them may only have street parking. I suggest doing more research around the area for a better parking spot. Recently, we also noticed a lot of construction happening around the area.

is a historic street in Vigan, Philippines, famous for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, which includes cobblestone streets and ancestral houses built in the Bahay na Bato style. Originally called Calle Escolta de Vigan, it was renamed in 1927 after former governor Mena Pecson Crisologo.

Rich history and rich owners! Lol! I wish there was a tour guide to provide more stories and explanation. But, it's great how they preserved their things in the house. The carvings on the furniture are intricate. The house is really big. It made me imagine how people lived in the olden times. :)

The mansion provides you with a rich history of Vigan, President Quirino and and the Philippines in general. The staff in the ground floor can tour you through the house and will tell you interesting insights and things you would not read anywhere else. So I would highly recommend to do a tour with them. A lot of furniture is still original and creates this cozy historical feeling and let's you immerse in the living conditions of the family back in the day.

What a beautiful museum to visit to understand the legacies and heritage of Vigan. well worth the 75 pesos to enter.

Entrance fee is php100 for adults and php40 for kids, seniors and pwd. This mansion is privately owned thus the fee is for its maintenance. There's an assigned local guide to show you around and share the history of the family, the house and items in it. Good to learn history in actual places which were only thought in textbooks and inside classrooms.

I dont know how to explain it but im so amaze with this peoples live back then. This mansion describe how rich they are. With their Chinese ancestry selling blue and white porcelain in 18th centuries.

It is a good place if you want to experience going back in time. The admin has preserved well the things in there. There is a minimal fee but is reasonable.

An interesting history of a local wealthy family. It gives a great insight into life for the wealthy at that time.

This place is a stunning blend of history and modern elegance. From the outside, its old-world charm transports you to another era, but stepping inside reveals a sophisticated, well-designed space that feels fresh and inviting. A must-visit for anyone who appreciates the beauty of the past fused with modern refinement.

I was fortunate enough to be here during the Viva vigan festival and I had a truly unique experience here. They had lots of amazing food, lots of people dancing and singing and having a total blast. Even though there was lots going on there was still plenty of room here and plenty of vendors. It's also very near a lot of great historical sites.

Clean little park and I appreciate how there are so many places to sit. It's nice to just spend time here having a picnic with your loved ones or walking your dogs. A cozy place to visit when you're tired of walking and taking a tour 😂 best times to visit is late afternoons😁

Great historical site. Good location. Has a lot of restaurants to choose from. There are banks as well and kalesas are everywhere.

The plaza is clean and it is near the church and a lot of the tourist spots here in Vigan, you can also join a zumba here at 6 pm or visit the food court where they'll serve you the famous Vigan Empanada 🥟

Great timing coming here! Vigan is hosting this years annual national sports comp. The streets are just overflowing with people from all over!

The church is still under construction October 4,2025. Caused by the earthquake last July 27,2022

I stopped by this place just to see what it was about and I ended up having a truly wonderful time. However bring some water because it is incredibly hot and there's not necessarily a lot of shade while you're walking around. With that being said there is a lot of animals and my favorite part is where I could feed the camels and pet them. There is a large gallery area that has a lot of animal trophies for you to view with some information about the animals. At the end there's also some small history about mining and smelting that occurred in the area, if you have the time I would definitely stop by. But it is a little out of the way. I'd also like to add that on the outside of this place there's lots of wonderful vendors that sell lots of great food and souvenirs very cheaply.

I recently visited Baluarte Zoo in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, and had a fun-filled experience exploring the wildlife sanctuary. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including Bengal tigers, lions, ostriches, and deer. One of the highlights is the Safari Gallery, which features taxidermied animals hunted by the zoo's founder, Chavit Singson. Pros: - Variety of Animals: The zoo has a diverse collection of animals, including exotic species. - Interactive Experiences: Visitors can feed and interact with some animals, making it a great experience for kids. - Safari Gallery: The taxidermied animal collection is impressive and educational. - Scenic Views: The zoo's grounds are well-maintained, offering great spots for photos. Cons: - Animal Welfare Concerns: Some visitors expressed concerns about animal care and living conditions. - Heat and Crowds: The sun can be intense, and crowds can be overwhelming during peak hours. - Maintenance: Some areas of the zoo appear unfinished or in need of renovation. Tips: - Visit Early: Arrive early to beat the heat and crowds. - Bring Water and Sun Protection: Stay hydrated and protected from the sun. - Choose Your Tour Wisely: Consider the package tour that suits your interests and budget. Overall, Baluarte Zoo is a great destination for families and wildlife enthusiasts. With some improvements in animal care and maintenance, it could be an even more enjoyable experience.

Cool, you can see animals up close. Warning, as the animals displayed were hunted and taxidermy. When I went there, they had a lion out for photos. It was, of course, chained, but it was falling asleep, and the taker kept waking it up for photos. It had no rest. They did let it go back to the cage after seeing that the Lion didn't want to keep awake.

Home to Chavit Singson's collection of animals—both live and taxidermied. This zoo is quite large that they are offering shuttle rides from the entrance to various areas within the grounds. Many animals are easily visible like deers that are freely roaming around, while the carnivores and the larger animals remain safely enclosed in cages. Visitors also have the option to take photos with their famous white tiger for an additional fee. Each ticket includes a chance to feed the camels. This is a great place for kids to learn more about animals and observe them up close in action. However, this is a not a place for wildlife advocates as the zoo also houses a collection of taxidermied animals hunted by Singson himself.

You get what you pay for. The entrance fee was 100pesos (around $7-8CAD), but unfortunately, the experience was dissapointing. Lack of animals- There were no tigers, giraffes, or other animals as advertised on various website. The washroom were not functional, there was no running water, sanitizer, or soap available. There was a lack of clear signage or directions, and several areas were closed off/under construction. We often found ourselves walking only to be told it was a dead end.

This place has long been on my itinerary, so we made sure to stop here for a mini tour. I saw different animals I was already familiar with, but what really caught my attention was Chavit Singson’s collection of hunting trophies. The taxidermy exhibit was impressive — the elephant and hippopotamus in particular were incredibly well preserved and detailed. I truly admire his hobby, especially since I also collect animal skulls as trophies. Baluarte is owned by former Ilocos Sur Governor Luis “Chavit” Singson. Originally a private rest house and personal zoo, it was later opened to the public and became one of the top tourist spots in Vigan. The place reflects both his love for animals and his passion for big-game hunting, which is evident in the extensive taxidermy collection. The taxidermy museum inside features animals Chavit personally hunted during safaris in Africa. It’s not just about exotic animals — the zoo also houses native species and aims to promote animal conservation awareness. The resort occasionally hosts animal shows and photo opportunities with birds and reptiles for visitors. Definitely worth a stop if you're in Ilocos!

It's a worth it experience. The Baluarte Zoo was established by local politician and businessman, Chavit Singson. Initially it was only a rest house for Singson. The site was already known as Baluarte prior to Singson's arrival, which came from the Spanish term for "stronghold" or "fortress".[1] Singson, who cites his hunting hobby as his motive in setting up Baluarte only considered opening a zoo when his hunting trophy collection grew too big. He thought that a zoo would serve to edify it patrons aside from promoting conservation and protection of endangered species.[2] Described as an interactive wildlife sanctuary, the facility was designed and developed by Singson himself.[3]

The structure itself is well-preserved. Climbing to the top gives you a great panoramic view of Vigan and the surrounding countryside. The bell tower has a peaceful atmosphere, and the nearby church adds to the charm. It’s not too crowded, and the locals are friendly and helpful.

I love my visit to.Bantay Watch Tower in Vigan remains a beautiful historic landmark even though visitors can no longer climb to the top. The centuries-old brick tower still stands proudly, offering a picturesque backdrop for photos and a glimpse into the past. The surrounding gardens and the nearby church make it a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the view from below. A must-visit spot for history lovers and anyone exploring Ilocos Sur!

The Bantay Bell Tower is another must-see in the Northern Philippines, a remarkable structure from the Spanish era that still stands today. Unfortunately, it was heavily damaged during the Ilocos region's last big earthquake on July 27, 2022. We sincerely hope this historical treasure will be restored soon so that future generations can once again have the privilege of going up the tower, just as we did before the damage occurred.

This tower is absolutely amazing, however you're not allowed to get very close to it let alone go inside of it. It was badly damaged in an earthquake several years ago. However you can go and take photos and walk around the grounds in front of the Tower. There's a nearby church and there are also people that you can pay to help you take photos there. I think you should stop here and maybe if you're lucky you can get a little closer to the tower than we were able to.

Seeing the Bantay Watch Tower, built in 1591, reminded me of Candi Brahu, a Buddhist temple located in Beijijong Village, Trowulan District, Mojokerto Regency, East Java, Indonesia. Candi Brahu was built in the 14th century AD. Because of the similarities in appearance between Candi Brahu and Bantay Tower, I visited this place. It is clear that Bantay Tower needs maintenance and perhaps reinforcement, as its structure appears fragile. To give cultural heritage lovers an idea, I have also included a photo of Candi Brahu.

Originally built as a watchtower to guard the town against pirates during the Spanish colonial period, the Bantay Watch Tower has now become an iconic landmark of Vigan. There’s no entrance fee, though donations are appreciated. Visitors can take photos with the bell tower as a picturesque backdrop. However, the tower itself has been closed to the public since parts of it were damaged during the 2022 earthquake.

Explore the historic Bantay Watchtower in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, a must-see Spanish colonial gem. Established in 1591, this iconic tower offers a glimpse into the past, guarding against pirates during the Spanish era... Bantay Watchtower as a Lookout for Invading Pirates The Bantay Watchtower, or Bantay Belfry, is located in a little town called Bantay 10 minutes from Vigan City. Built in 1591, it once served as a watchtower for the Spanish colonists as a defense against the potential risk of invading pirates. The word 'bantay' means 'guard' in Tagalog; and even though the Bantay Watchtower was turned into a bell tower by the nearby church in 1857, it still was used as a watchtower during the two World Wars due to its strategic location.

Admission to the museum is free, but the staff won’t let you proceed unless you put money into the donation box. You can see a wide variety of items and get a glimpse into what life was like for the wealthy during that era. There were plenty of collections, including clothing, perfume, shoes, furniture, and tableware.

When I was taken to the Crisologo memorabilia museum, I had no idea who Floro S. Crisologo was -- who turned out to be one of Vigan City's most famous congressmen. His fame stemmed from his contributions in drafting laws that led to the University of Northern Philippines in Vigan, and even as the father of the Social Security System that has helped many Filipinos. Floro S. Crisologo was shot by an unknown person while at St. Paul's Cathedral. All his memorabilia, including the car with the gunshot wound, are kept in place and modestly in this museum.

This museum is very well laid out. They have an easy to follow route and it's a one-way trip but you have all the time in the world that you want. Unfortunately some of the displays have just been damaged from the humidity and lack of temperature control but most the museum is in good shape. I believe a couple of the rooms have aircon as well. It doesn't take very long to walk through everything but it's a good little stop if it's your first time in Vigan.

A well-maintained museum of a prominent political family in Vigan - the Crisologos. Once the home of Representative Floro and Governor Carmeling Crisologo and their children, the house now showcases fascinating antiques, including an old wooden refrigerator and various personal belongings. Visitors can explore the entire residence, including their offices and bedrooms, offering a unique glimpse into the family's past. The staff are accommodating and knowledgeable. There's no entrance fee, but donations are welcome.

I really loved this museum! Unlike the Padre Burgos Ancestral House, which felt almost bare (most items there are replicas and probably only 5% original), the Crisologo Museum is filled with authentic pieces that bring history to life. You’ll find so many fascinating personal items—from Carmeling Crisologo’s beautifully coordinated bags and shoes, to the actual car where an attempt was made on her life, even down to original election posters. It’s not just a building; it’s a space full of stories and details that make you feel connected to the past. Entrance is free, but donations are encouraged—and I truly recommend giving one. This museum doesn’t receive government funding, and it’s clear that the staff and caretakers keep it alive out of love and dedication. Their passion shows when they share the background and history of Floro Crisologo and his legacy. This is definitely a must-visit if you want to experience a museum that’s both meaningful and full of substance.

Thoroughly enjoyed it. The bottom floor was so hot though. All the fans were unplugged. It was great for a donation only museum.

Was so amazed with how they were able to preserved the structure of the house, as well as the furnitures. Grabe!!! Been a member of SSS since 2016, yet last Aug 1 2025 ko lang nalaman kung sino ang Father of SSS

This is Padre Burgos' (of the GomBurZa) family home that they have turned into a regional national museum. It free to enter and there is an assigned guide per group so you can get better understanding of the displays and history of the exhibit and town. It also showcases the classic Spanish colonial house and furnitures. They also have the sugar cane mill as this is the main ingredient for the Iloko wine, basi. I am glad we have more of these museums around the country and I hope you visit it when you are in Vigan.

This museum consists of two portions. Firstly, the Father Burgos House, one of the 3 priests martyred after the 1872 Cavite Mutiny. The problem was nearly no placards of information. And not a single person on staff to provide information in English. The 2nd portion of the museum is an old provincial jail that is extremely well done and has a lot of displays concerning President Quirino who was born here when his father was the Jail Warden.

I was really looking forward to visiting the National Museum of the Philippines in Vigan, located in the ancestral house of Padre Burgos of GomBurZa fame. Since it carries the “National Museum” name, I had high expectations—but it turned out to be a letdown. The house is spacious, yet the displays feel almost empty. For example, there’s a printing press on display, so I asked the guide if it was connected to the Burgos family. She wasn’t sure—just said it was probably one of their businesses. That lack of context made the display feel random, without real historical significance tied to the family. Even more surprising was the lack of personal history. Aside from two portraits of Padre Burgos, I didn’t see family photos or artifacts that would give visitors a meaningful connection to his life. Overall, it felt like only 5% of what a national museum should showcase. During my Vigan tour, someone from another museum shared an interesting perspective: they chose to remain self-managed because, if they were under an outside body, control would be taken away and important pieces might end up removed and sold elsewhere. That explanation made me think—perhaps this is why the Burgos House feels so empty now, with mostly replicas and very few original items left. It’s a real shame, because this space has the potential to be a powerful tribute to Padre Burgos and his role in history, but instead it feels like a missed opportunity.

It's a smaller museum, but good overall. Takes under an hour to see everything and most rooms have aircon. Definitely go if you're in Vigan.

Very well-maintained. I was able to learn a ton about the region's history and architecture. If you're looking for an engaging and informative experience, I highly recommend visiting.

Worth a visit.. It's free and very educational..

one of the highlights of my vigan trip! you should not miss this when in vigan! i really loved my time walking around here. you can easily spend an hour touring around and not notice it has been that long. you have like 3 different buildings you can visit. each with various different pieces with very informative descriptions. i loved how the arts and historic things were preserved here. you can really feel like you have gone back in time just by wandering around. all buildings are air-conditioned (except for the provincial jail) so you would not feel very hot inside the museums. the people manning the place are very friendly and accommodating and would even offer to take pictures even if not asked 😅 overall, rlly loved the place! gave me goosebumps the moment i stepped foot inside. would rlly recommend to people visiting vigan 🫶✨

The Metropolitan Cathedral of Nueva Segovia: A Testament of Faith and Resilience As the stronghold of the Archdiocese of Nueva Segovia, the Metropolitan Cathedral stands as a beacon of faith, even as it bears the scars of the 2022 earthquake. Though still undergoing restoration, it remains open to the public, allowing the faithful to pray and reflect within its sacred walls. Despite the ongoing repairs, pews are still available for visitors, and half of the cathedral remains accessible for worship. At the heart of its marvelous altar are the historical images of Jesus of Nazareth and Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary, enshrined in the low mass altars. However, what truly sets this cathedral apart from others I’ve visited is its old Spanish-era paintings displaying the promises of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus to His devotees. Seeing this made me realize why most Ilocano churches prominently enshrine the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary in their main retablos—faith and tradition deeply intertwined. Another remarkable treasure of the cathedral is the venerable remains of Archbishop Alfredo Versoza, a persecuted clergyman in his time for his testament to the apparition of Our Lady, Mediatrix of All Grace, in his former Archdiocese of Lipa. I prayed through his intercession, hoping for the full restoration of this sacred seat of faith and for a renewed devotion among Filipinos to Jesus’ Blessed Mother, the Mediatrix of All Grace. I look forward to the cathedral’s complete restoration, and I will certainly update my review once that day comes. May this place continue to stand as a symbol of unwavering faith for both locals and pilgrims alike.

An incredibly historic and resilient Church located in the heart of the historic Vigan community. The church is currently being repaired and renovated from what I was told was an earthquake that did a lot of damage. However you can still go inside and buy from the vendors on the outside of the church. Definitely worth going inside to seeing this old historic church and learning a little bit about the history.

Visiting a church can be a peaceful experience. You get to listen to the words of God and appreciate the beautiful surroundings. Plus, many churches have a fascinating history that's worth exploring. I hope you get the chance to visit one soon!

A definite must-visit! The Metropolitan Cathedral is a historical and architectural marvel. Its grandeur and significance make it a highlight of Vigan. Don't miss the chance to explore this beautiful cathedral. 𝑷𝑳𝑬𝑨𝑺𝑬. 𝑪𝑯𝑬𝑪𝑲 𝑶𝑼𝑻 𝑴𝒀 𝑶𝑻𝑯𝑬𝑹 𝑺𝑶𝑪𝑰𝑨𝑳𝑺 𝑨𝑵𝑫 𝑭𝑶𝑳𝑳𝑶𝑾 𝑭𝑶𝑹 𝑴𝑶𝑹𝑬. 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦: ＭＣＰＡＤＡＯＡＮ 𝐓𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫/𝕏: ＭＣＰＡＤＡＯＡＮ 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤: ＭＣＰＡＤＡＯＡＮ 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬: ＭＣＰＡＤＡＯＡＮ

Old churches always put me in awe. It holds so many stories of people from that place. This church is also known as the Metropolitan cathedral of St. Paul, the apostle. Part of UNESCO heritage site located in the heart of Vigan. It haa a baroque architecture built during the Spanish era and considered as the seat of the Roman Catholic devotion for centuries. Also, here lies the remains of Bishop Versoza, 4th Catholic bishop and servant of God. Right across the church is Plaza Salcedo.

Such a pretty place to visit. The old, narrow streets and the enchanting open capiz windows will transport you back to an era where people around you were busy going about their day wearing filipiñana and barong. How positively glorious would that be to witness that in person? Times like this i am reminded of how old my soul feels. Just a piece of advice, make sure to visit this place in the afternoon. My companions and i arrived at abt 12 noon so the restaurants were packed with customers dining in and the streets deserted because of the unforgiving heat that has given me a massive headache but still was worth it! I will definitely be back to visit.

It is great to visit a seat of the Roman Catholic Religion in Vigan. Historically, this Cathedral is one of the oldest in our country where the First Filipino Bishop served. It is located in the very heart of the City. You can have your anticipated mass here at 6 PM and at seven eat your dinner in the nearby restaurants or food store. After an hour, you can find your place in the area where the famous show of the Dancing Fountains are. This place is located right in front of the Vigan Cathedral. Once the show is over, you can walk the rest of the Calle Crisologo to buy your souvenirs.

Father burgos house, it also cater memorabilia's of late president quirino, a branch of national museum in vigan. Only picture allowed inside, no filming.

National Museum in Ilocos Ilocos Regional Museum Complex The Padre Burgos Museum is one of the three historic buildings that is part of the Ilocos Regional Museum Complex (National Museum Ilocos). The museum is an ancestral house constructed in 1788, which was declared as a historical building owing to its association with the martyred priest, Fr. Jose Burgos (1837-1872), whose death along with two other priests sparked the anti-Spanish colonial resistance. The Municipality Jail in 1700’s era can be found here also the President Quirino’s memorabilias, the collection of Basi Jars, and the historical paintings of Basi revolution. #padreburgosmuseum #basijar

No entry fee, you just have to register.

Padre Burgos House is a hidden treasure for history enthusiasts. It's a must-visit for anyone intrigued by the tools and artifacts from the 1800s. The house exudes charm and takes you on a captivating journey back in time. Don't miss the opportunity to explore this historical gem! 𝑷𝑳𝑬𝑨𝑺𝑬. 𝑪𝑯𝑬𝑪𝑲 𝑶𝑼𝑻 𝑴𝒀 𝑶𝑻𝑯𝑬𝑹 𝑺𝑶𝑪𝑰𝑨𝑳𝑺 𝑨𝑵𝑫 𝑭𝑶𝑳𝑳𝑶𝑾 𝑭𝑶𝑹 𝑴𝑶𝑹𝑬. 𝐈𝐧𝐬𝐭𝐚𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐦: ＭＣＰＡＤＡＯＡＮ 𝐓𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐫/𝕏: ＭＣＰＡＤＡＯＡＮ 𝐅𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤: ＭＣＰＡＤＡＯＡＮ 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐬: ＭＣＰＡＤＡＯＡＮ

Part of the National Museum of Ilocos Complex. Not really interesting enough since they closed the Abel weaving exhibition room years ago. The main exhibits are pieces of furniture which one can find almost anywhere.

You can smell that this place holds a very rich history. Video recording is not allowed, only picture taking without flash. No entrance fee.

Very friendly and welcoming staff. This place is air-conditioned, too. However, you can finish touring this place in just a few minutes. Don’t forget to proceed to the provincial jail next to it, where you can find and learn more things.

Interesting to see the process. Kevin the water buffalo is used to mix the clay. The objects are baked at 1,000°C in the kiln. They are mostly producing bricks for a bell tower restoration. An earthquake had damaged it. The ash produced in the kiln is used as fertilizer by farmers.

You can actually go here and take a very small shot at making your own small clay jar for a small sum of money. A gentleman will help you create a small little jar that you can leave behind or I believe if you want they will throw it in the kiln for you. But there's also a large amount of jars and pots that you can purchase from this place.

If you’d like to experience making clay pots or vases with your own hands, this is a wonderful place to visit. The pottery-making activity is free, though donations are warmly appreciated. You can also buy ready-made jars and small clay jar keychains as souvenirs. If you want to bring home the pot you made, arrangements can be made, but it may take at least a day since it needs to be fired first. Still, the experience itself makes the visit well worth it.

RG Jar Factory in Vigan is a must-visit! The craftsmanship is incredible, and watching the artisans create traditional burnay jars is a fascinating experience. Plus the the kind and approachable workers.

The people here are very friendly and would offer you to try and experience making a clay jar for free. There’s no fee but they do accept donations—any amount would do as long as you are willing and it’s from the heart. We went here on a weekday morning and we were the only tourists at that time, so we were able to make the most out of our visit.

My weekday visit was not in vain! I was fortunate to be there when a group of travelers were being given a brief history and demo of how jars were made. The jar maker let me work on the jar he started. I couldn't bring the finished product since it needs to rest for days and has to be baked. It was a fun experience nevertheless 🤩

If you're looking for some pottery and want to dip your hands into a bit of pottery making, this place is for you! They offer free pot making sessions, and if you are interested, you can take home the pot you made. They also sell pots for many aplications. One is a special ash tray where the smoke comes out of the mouth of the pot head, and they also sell a special pot for storing salt. It's a nice place to check out if you're ever in the area.

Beautiful, newly renovated church. There's still scaffolding surrounding it. People are allowed to go inside now. The altar is modern and majestic. They were able to preserve the main structure of the church. There was a recent earthquake and the walls of the church has cracked. During our visit, these cracks were being fixed. You can the old materials they used to build the church when you get closer to the cracks, a testament that this church has gone through the test of times.

This is a gorgeous church on the same grounds that the bell tower is on. The church is still currently being renovated and they're still scaffolding in front but it is incredibly beautiful and they've made a lot of progress with it. It's great to stop in and cool off and grab a couple photos. The church stays pretty busy with tourists and locals from I understand but I had no issues getting in or out or getting photos.

A Testament of Faith and Resilience in Bantay It’s unfortunate that I visited after the 2022 earthquake, as the church’s facade is still under restoration. However, stepping inside was a relief—the altar retablo remained largely intact, preserving the sacred beauty of this historic place. At the heart of the altar is the pontifically crowned image of Apo Caridad de Bantay, a beloved devotion of the townsfolk and pilgrims. No doubt, the devastation from the earthquake was deeply felt, as many come here to venerate the miraculous image of Our Blessed Mother. The Gothic-style retablo is truly breathtaking, especially with the Crucifixion of Our Lord placed at its highest point, evoking deep reverence. The design is so striking that it even made me wish for a chapel like this at home—one that inspires the same solemnity and devotion. Despite the damage, the faith and spirit of Bantay remain strong. I look forward to seeing this church fully restored and vibrant once again.

Classic Philippine church with an imposing, stunning architecture. The church was occupied though. I think there was an ongoing ceremony that time. But the outdoor chapel ruins near the outdoor restroom at the church grounds was open to tourists. Turn right from the church façade and follow the sign. There's another entrance that says Restroom. Using the clean restroom asks for a courtesy donation of 10 pesos. You can take pictures at the outdoor chapel ruins too as the staff would offer it if you want to. The chapel ruins are free. It's nice and cozy outside, and comes complete with pew chairs, pulpit, cross, and the usual decorative statues. And you can pretend to ring the mini bell there. It's a nice side trip to have come here, quick and easy.

You can still visit and take pictures outside. Too bad, this place has been severely damaged by the earthquake last year. There are no fees, but donations would be helpful for the renovation.

The Parish of St. Augustine of Hippo a.k.a. Bantay Church with its Bell Tower is a precious relic to visit. Unfortunately, due to the damages sustained during the recent earthquake, the Church and Bell Tower are closed to the public. I think it's best to visit in the afternoon. The lighting would be great for the 'Gram.

One of my most favorite church to visit is the Saint Augustine Parish Church, also known as Bantay Church. It is considered one of the oldest church in the Ilocos region established in 1590. I esp. love it's Spanish architecture and the intricate details of its' interiors. It is also one of the most visited places in Ilocos. Big parking space for private vehicles.

Pretty run down place, no information presented whatsoever. You just walk into a house which shows some old, dusty furniture. A radio blarring loud music into the rooms killed the last bit of ambience that might have been there.

Former home of a rich local family. You get a real sense if how they lived back then.

Hd 0 cam is on verb acxent and declaration is important

it was so good it feels like when u wear those Clothes a Filiniana clothes i am talking about its like im back to the past...

Not a good place to stay

Walk back to history.

👍👍

The Vigan conservation complex, symbolizes the Biguenos steadfast commitment to conserve their city’s rich history and heritage for the next generation to appreciate and sustain as atool for continuing socio economic advancement.

I went here earlier today and have some mixed feelings. The bulk of the exhibit is about important people from Vigan and especially the indigenous bahay na bato architectural style that dominates Vigan. This section was particularly excellent, giving minute details about the architecture and taking care to NOT say it is Spanish architecture, since it isn’t. It has some Spanish influence, but is ultimately derived from bahay kubo and is a Filipino architecture found throughout the islands. So good for that presentation avoiding the unfortunate “Spanish city” trope. However, I think the early part about the ancient history of Vigan needs to be revamped. The name Vigan almost certainly comes from the bigaa plant, the local name for taro (gabi in Tagalog). The problem is that they also promote the incorrect folk etymology than Vigan is derived from Hokkien Chinese. There is basically no historical evidence of this, especially in light of Vigan being a precolonial settlement that was then restructured under colonialism and subject to Chinese settlement under colonialism (somewhat similar to Manila’s history). The name itself is a discriptor of the area, much like Maynila is. The commentary on the history of dark-skinned Jesus depictions in Philippines is also demonstrably incorrect, as is the commentary on Bisayan history with the Spanish. Philippine languages, the major ones anyways, all have around 20% Spanish-derived terms (which is relatively low for former colonies; Philippine languages tend to be “conservative” in grammar/syntax/lexicon) and are not mixed languages. Similarly the “mestizo” term in Spanish records refers nearly exclusively to Tsinoys, not Spanish-Filipinos. With all of these though, I want to be clear that the problem is NOT with the tour guides. They were all extremely nice and liked engaging in discussions with us guests. The issue is the way history curricula is taught in Philippines as a whole, and how the tourism department at their university presents historical narratives.

This is a project of the Government of Vigan out from their PCF funds. Beautiful building for tourism purposes. This is where they house their ancient items of the past.

An excellent complex of facilities dedicated to heritage and run by the Local Government of Vigan. Houses museums and archives, together with learning areas..

Nice complex museum, a must visit

the place is not open to the public yet. but it's something to look forward to. it will be an interactive museum that will showcase the culture of vigan.

Though a lot is still to be done, the complex is a wonderful place to discover the rich history of Vigan.

Visualy unappealing BUT great write ups you can read and learn about Vigan. Only museum with entrance few. Museum was not crowded, we were the only ones there. The locals (even trike drivers) are unfamiliar if you look for "Vigan City Museum".

What a lovely museum this is! world class exhibits with excellent curation! We were pleasantly surprised by what we found but are equally puzzled why it is so poorly signposted in Vigan! Most tourists miss out on this gem of a museum because they have no way of knowing about it and where to find it. It is a museum that invites you to learn more about Vigan and the history of the Ilocos region!

(Translated by Google) Must visit! There is a museum guide. Thanks to the sincere young guide, I feel like I finished my Vigan tour here!!! (Original) Must visit! 박물관 가이드가 있다. 가이드에 진심인 청년 덕에 비간 투어를 여기서 다 끝낸듯한 느낌!!!

Plaza Salcedo in Vigan is a vibrant and historic centerpiece of tourism in the city. This large plaza is surrounded by cobblestone streets and numerous establishments, offering a perfect mix of history and modernity. It becomes especially lively at night with its captivating fountain light and music show, drawing locals and tourists alike. The area is always bustling, reflecting its status as a central hub of activity. Visitors can enjoy the charm of nearby heritage sites, restaurants, and shops while immersing themselves in the colonial-era ambiance. A visit to Plaza Salcedo is a must for experiencing Vigan’s rich culture and lively atmosphere.

This incredibly unassuming plaza is actually quite a delight. There's a pretty fair amount of shade and seating here. Not only that it's pretty well maintained and mostly clean. However the real star of the show is during the evenings on the weekends I was told they do a little music show with the fountains and it is a simple but very enjoyable show to watch. The fountains are in rhythm with the music and there's also a light show occurring at the same time. If you are here and it's past 7:00 p.m. I believe you can watch an amazing light and fountain show that lasts about 30 minutes

This water fountain show came as a surprise to me! It may not be as big as the Bellagio in Vegas but the show is so well made - speakers sounded so good, the lights were on point. Plus they added benches for people to sit in and enjoy the show. The plaza is surrounded by the Provincial Capitol, City hall and St Paul Cathedral which added to its charm and old Spanish colonial vibe.

It's FREE. The show starts by 7:30pm until 8pm. Make sure you get there early. We went there on a Wednesday and there's a lot of people. Sit on the side seating area of the building, I think it has the best view of the show. It will shower for sure, so be prepared. Wear a cap. They also have a smoky effect and you can literally inhale it.

Plaza Salcedo is a public park in Vigan, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. The park is the longer arm of an L-shaped open space[1] where a popular fountain display is located.[2] Named after the Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo, Plaza Salcedo is the city’s town center and is known for being the execution site of Filipina revolutionary Gabriela Silang in September 1873.

Must see! Amazing Vigan! We are facinated on the governace of the town.Amazing experience for free!

It’s a place to visit in Vegan. There are many street food options. Drinks and snacks. The dancing fountain started at 7:30 to 8 pm, the show now that fantastic (watch Dubai fountain)

Location of great historical and religious value. Monumental watchtower of the XVI century.

Situated at the right side of St. Augustine Parish or Bantay Church, it is a great place to visit apart from the more famous Bantay Belltower.

The Name says it all. The atmosphere is a bit earie at first but as you spend more time you get to appreciate the setting. Its a cool place to visit but might give a creepy feeling if you decided to visit it at dusk... you have been warned ..m

Worth the trip and climb up the tower for the wonderful views.

Pretty disappointing and most of it was closed off and couldn't go in. Just lota of people outside taking photos of the tower

One of the good places you can drop by if you're heading to Vigan City. Make sure to bring your cam📷📸

It is a great place to relax take a picture and pray.

This pin has the wrong address. If you’re riding a tryc, just tell them to take you to Baluarte. Otherwise, the correct address on map is: H92H+73G, Salindeg Rd, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur, Philippines. Photo provided for reference.

The woman with glasses ignore us. We where waiting to be assist yet we waited until one of her coworker told her to help us. I came from Canada and the way this person help us is questionable. She already notice us but pay no attention on giving us a proper service.

compared to other zoos, this Baluarte is one of my favorites because the animals here seem to be in their natural habitat

One of a kind zoo and museum a must if you visit Ilocos sur🤙🏾

Nice place to visit😊

Very clean and beautiful surrounding an

This is the wrong places. Came here but the pictures are all wrong .