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]

Many dishes are praised bagnet, empanada, local Ilocano specialties. The idea of dining in a garden‑setting adds to the overall experience. Atmosphere and scenery in this place is awesome. Many people love Hidden Garden for its peaceful, green ambience. For those who enjoy nature or plants, this is a treat. Nice spots for photos, relaxing walks, enjoying the shade under trees.

The food was absolutely delicious, and the atmosphere was perfect—relaxing and inviting. The staff were incredibly friendly, accommodating, and attentive, making sure we had everything we needed. The location itself is also beautiful and perfect for some Instagram-worthy photos. Overall, it was a wonderful dining experience that I would definitely recommend and can’t wait to visit again.

Great place to eat. Indeed lived up to its name to be "hidden garden". Tho at noon, it might get really hot, but standfans are provided almost on every table. It has restaurant with live music, cafes and pastries, and mini bar. They sell plants and bonsais too. Even the comfort room has a "zen garden" view.

Had our first breakfast here on our Ilocos Family Trip. The service was good. Have a variety of budget meals to choose from with free coffee. The ambience of the place was fantastic. We enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere.

Can’t find more annoying place in Vigan. Because of its popularity the place is overcrowded and overnoising. You can hear 2 songs in the same time in one place. Plus toooo many families with kids in one place - like a kindergarten. It’s not HIDDEN anymore. Or you should come early morning to catch calmness of this garden.

It's alright the food was kinda nice but I think it was also expensive. Some didn't sit well with my taste especially the sisig. The service was also partly convoluted, maybe because we ordered a lot (for 3 families) and some orders just got mixed up so we had many add-ons whilst eating. I feel like the restaurant is the only thing that needs more care put into it, cuz they had so many fans around the roofed dining area that idk what might fly into my food. Another thing was the aura of the restaurant had like a busy public market eatery vibe mostly because of the lack of proper air circulation and lunch rush, they had many fans sure but where do you think old stale air goes when you have 5 industrial wall fans all counteracting each ones airflow (so I would recommend eating in those "umbrella" seats for a better experience, but take into consideration the weather). But all in all the place was great. It had many plants, good vibes, clean restrooms, and a nice little cafe & bakery although a little pricey. It's not the best but it could

My recent visit to Hidden Garden in Vigan City, Ilocos Region, Philippines was an absolute delight and a true highlight of my culinary journey. This charming restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's an experience that celebrates authentic Ilocano cuisine in a beautiful, serene setting. The food here is simply outstanding, with every dish tasting like a labor of love. The absolute stars of our meal were the Bagnet Kare-Kare and the Bangus Sisig. The Bagnet Kare-Kare is a must-try – the bagnet (crispy deep-fried pork belly) was perfectly crunchy on the outside and tender within, beautifully contrasted by the rich, creamy, and savory peanut sauce of the kare-kare. It's comfort food elevated to an art form. The Bangus Sisig was equally impressive; served sizzling, the flaked milkfish was incredibly flavorful, with just the right balance of tanginess from calamansi and a subtle kick from the chili. It’s a brilliant, lighter take on sisig without sacrificing any of the iconic savory punch. Beyond these showstoppers, we also thoroughly enjoyed the Poqui-poqui and Okoy. The Poqui-poqui, with its smoky grilled eggplant mashed and sautéed with eggs, tomatoes, and onions, was earthy, savory, and incredibly comforting – a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create profound flavors. And the Okoy, a crispy fritter packed with small shrimp and vegetables, was a delightful appetizer that was perfectly fried and seasoned. The ambiance of Hidden Garden itself adds to the experience, offering a peaceful escape that truly complements the traditional flavors served. If you're in Vigan and looking for an authentic taste of Ilocano cuisine that will leave a lasting impression, Hidden Garden is an absolute must-visit. You won't be disappointed!

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.

Vigan's wet market that offers an assortment of goods and services. There were different stalls selling fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat including their famous longganisa and bagnet. You may also find assorted kakanins and carinderia-style food as well as services like haircut and tailoring.

Public markets are just equally important places to visit. Whatever you find at the touristy places may just be cheaper here, which is even the same item. Parking is easy at the perimeter. Interesting items you can buy Vigan Chichacorn, Pinakurat vinegar and alikè for pasalubong Ice chest and crusher ice so you can transport food items fresh you like to take with you home. Hats and other native wares

The Vigan public market is a fairly large market spread over 2 floors and 2 buildings that connected by a bridge on the second level and the street on the ground level. The lower floor mainly consists of dry goods, salons, and flower vendors whereas the second level sells meats, poultry and fish as well as vegetables and other fresh food

An authentic wet market not for the fussy. Fantastic range of produce including fruit and vegetables and household staples. There are two levels with the wet part upstairs.

Vigan City Public Market we,re here to buy bagnet, longanisang vigan and native garlic. This product is one of the tourist love to buy here. And also the venigar and others.

Organized and somehow clean. Support vendor here by buying bagnet and longganisa here at cheaper price compared to calle crisologo

If you want to see some of the real world life in Vigan, this is a great place.

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

I recently visited this resto and had a mixed experience. The food was great and arrived promptly, which was a definite plus. However, the service fell short. The staff wasn't particularly accommodating, and we were surprised to learn that they don't accept card payments despite advertising it at the entrance. It would have been helpful if they had informed us of this before we ordered. The atmosphere was average, but unfortunately, the restroom was in poor condition and could use some attention. Overall, while the food was enjoyable, the inconsistencies in service and amenities prevented me from having a fully positive experience.

Quaint restaurant located at Crisologo Street tourist areas. Offers street dining as well as inside a rather rustic building. Accessible is moderate given elevation changes, type of flooring and rather dark lighting. Food offering is traditional Filipino plus a few they caters to less adventurous tourists like pizza.

I want to start out by saying this is a very old and historic restaurant. But it has a nice cozy and worn in feeling. The service here is also great and the menu is incredibly diverse. We were able to order our food quickly, the food was also served quickly and it was very delicious. I hear a couple times while I was in Vigan and never had a bad experience, I can't wait to return.

Really fantastic food and a huge variety - from Japanese food, to local, to pizza! The tuna sashimi was amazing and so was the Poque-poque. The smoothies also looked amazing. We came back two nights in a row. Highly recommend this lovely place. Lovely and friendly staff too!

The place is overrated based on our one time experience. We had a quick chill out at this place because of its ambience and the setup. But when we tried their pizza and cocktails, we were not totally impressed. To be fair, I am willing to give it another try since what we ordered might not be their best dish.

This place is a tourist trap/more expensive than Manila. The menu is overpriced (more expensive than developed countries) but the food is more of an eatery/carenderia style. I would not recommend the á la carte menu at all too. Better spend your money somewhere where the quality meets the expectation. I also felt rushed selecting food choices and all they want is to send the bill immediately. Avoid at all costs.

The pitcher had mold. The eggplant in pinakbet was raw. The pasta was a little bit raw. Slightly hard. Expensive.

Many dishes are praised bagnet, empanada, local Ilocano specialties. The idea of dining in a garden‑setting adds to the overall experience. Atmosphere and scenery in this place is awesome. Many people love Hidden Garden for its peaceful, green ambience. For those who enjoy nature or plants, this is a treat. Nice spots for photos, relaxing walks, enjoying the shade under trees.

Great place to eat. Indeed lived up to its name to be "hidden garden". Tho at noon, it might get really hot, but standfans are provided almost on every table. It has restaurant with live music, cafes and pastries, and mini bar. They sell plants and bonsais too. Even the comfort room has a "zen garden" view.

Can’t find more annoying place in Vigan. Because of its popularity the place is overcrowded and overnoising. You can hear 2 songs in the same time in one place. Plus toooo many families with kids in one place - like a kindergarten. It’s not HIDDEN anymore. Or you should come early morning to catch calmness of this garden.

My recent visit to Hidden Garden in Vigan City, Ilocos Region, Philippines was an absolute delight and a true highlight of my culinary journey. This charming restaurant is not just a place to eat; it's an experience that celebrates authentic Ilocano cuisine in a beautiful, serene setting. The food here is simply outstanding, with every dish tasting like a labor of love. The absolute stars of our meal were the Bagnet Kare-Kare and the Bangus Sisig. The Bagnet Kare-Kare is a must-try – the bagnet (crispy deep-fried pork belly) was perfectly crunchy on the outside and tender within, beautifully contrasted by the rich, creamy, and savory peanut sauce of the kare-kare. It's comfort food elevated to an art form. The Bangus Sisig was equally impressive; served sizzling, the flaked milkfish was incredibly flavorful, with just the right balance of tanginess from calamansi and a subtle kick from the chili. It’s a brilliant, lighter take on sisig without sacrificing any of the iconic savory punch. Beyond these showstoppers, we also thoroughly enjoyed the Poqui-poqui and Okoy. The Poqui-poqui, with its smoky grilled eggplant mashed and sautéed with eggs, tomatoes, and onions, was earthy, savory, and incredibly comforting – a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create profound flavors. And the Okoy, a crispy fritter packed with small shrimp and vegetables, was a delightful appetizer that was perfectly fried and seasoned. The ambiance of Hidden Garden itself adds to the experience, offering a peaceful escape that truly complements the traditional flavors served. If you're in Vigan and looking for an authentic taste of Ilocano cuisine that will leave a lasting impression, Hidden Garden is an absolute must-visit. You won't be disappointed!

Had our first breakfast here on our Ilocos Family Trip. The service was good. Have a variety of budget meals to choose from with free coffee. The ambience of the place was fantastic. We enjoyed the relaxing atmosphere.

It's alright the food was kinda nice but I think it was also expensive. Some didn't sit well with my taste especially the sisig. The service was also partly convoluted, maybe because we ordered a lot (for 3 families) and some orders just got mixed up so we had many add-ons whilst eating. I feel like the restaurant is the only thing that needs more care put into it, cuz they had so many fans around the roofed dining area that idk what might fly into my food. Another thing was the aura of the restaurant had like a busy public market eatery vibe mostly because of the lack of proper air circulation and lunch rush, they had many fans sure but where do you think old stale air goes when you have 5 industrial wall fans all counteracting each ones airflow (so I would recommend eating in those "umbrella" seats for a better experience, but take into consideration the weather). But all in all the place was great. It had many plants, good vibes, clean restrooms, and a nice little cafe & bakery although a little pricey. It's not the best but it could

This is a great place! Nice collection of Bonsais, restaurant, coffee shop with pastries, place to have a quick massage. Just a fun place to hang out. If I lived nearby, it’s the type of place I’d go to often for coffee. We did not eat, but we had drinks and listened to music by the Los Antikos! They were really good and perform on the weekends.

Apparently this is a chain restaurant here in The Philippines. I had not heard of it prior to coming across this branch in Vigan, just as I had not heard of Vigan Bagnet before ordering it. More about that in a sec. Firstly to the staff: wow. Just excellent. Well recruited, and well trained. So impressive. Now to the food. Having stated up front my lack of knowledge of local regional cuisine, and having arrived in Vigan less than 15 minutes prior to stepping foot in this resto, I decided to order off a sheet titled “Vigan Branch Specials”. To my eye, the picture for the Vigan Bagnet was roasted pork belly. But I now know that it is double cooked deep-fried pork. Anyway, check out the pics to see what was on the menu, and what I received. A far cry. In any case, these are plates to be shared, not for one idiot to order for himself. The dinoydoy was quite tasty, to be fair. So in short, did not rate the food but the staff are amazing.

The food is very delicious and I was completely impressed with their professionalism and customer service.

Went to vigan and walked around the calle crisologo and stop by to eat at Maxs restaurant. Staff are friendly and assisted Us quickly , location is in the heritage area. The food tasted good and served hot we enjoyed our dinner

It was fullhouse when we came. It took a long time before we were seated and before a crew got our orders. The ambience was chaotic and noisy so i didn't enjoy my meal.

I appreciate their obliging to take advanced orders through their hotlime number (here in Google Maps). The Lechong Kawali Kare-Kare's price is unjustified, and lacks meat. Sizzling Tofu will always be a favorite paired with rice. Crowd may be plenty during peak-seasons and holidays.

Service is great as usual. Food was served fairly quick. Food price is pretty decent. Muffins are a must try! What let me down was the fact that the tables / chairs weren't so clean and the corn was cooked properly. I would still recommend it

It's a sad experience dining here. After waiting for long to be seated, we were served the saltiest pancit we've ever had. We had to send it back to the kitchen. Portions were ridiculous. Check out how small this "regular" chicken is. 1 star.

Comments about the staff are accurate—they are neither attentive nor proactive. The staff/s are just standing at the entrance merely stare at you and won’t approach unless you call them. Their margarita is overpriced at 295, especially given its low quality.

Waited nearly an hour for food, had to ask where our food was As soon as it came out, we noticed the tilapia was half cooked, raw pork (photos attached) the mussels wasn't cleaned properly. We had to flag someone down to complain, their only reponse was 'sorry' I refused to pay for the food we couldn't eat and they only took off 600php. The music, beers, atmosphere was the only good thing about the place. Would not reccommend the food.

The food is yummy.. the price just went up compare to last year.. great place for large group to drink but expect a service fee.. . The staffs are great too..

The only place in the Vigan tourist area that is open until late. Drinks, snacks, and music at an outdoor table are pleasant. There is a service charge here

This place is great at night!! The food was great. The place is lively. I believe famous actors have been also to this place. The downside is, the toilet stinks and unsanitary. Better take your business somewhere else.

The food is really nice. Good serving for the price. The live band is awesome. Drinks are not pricey either. The staff are approachable and friendly. Washroom is okay. Generally, the place is good to hangout. It’s just at the heart of Vigan.

The party place of old Vigan. Live music and good variety of drinks. Works until 2am

With all the good review I saw.. I'm quite disappointed with the following 1. They serves us grilled fish (pinaputok na tilapia and tuna) I find it overpriced due to the way they prepare the food (blant) and they serves these grilled seafood cold! At least your I appreciate it if you put salt or lemon /lime wedges but no... This over priced fish is so blant we go back to our hotel and ordered fastfood!... I'm so upset 2. Sinigang na isda is served luke warm it's not piping hot. How can you serve sinigang like this?!! Very frustrated 3. Serving staff are only 2 and clueless on what they do (i.e. They serve our ordered Sinigang without giving us serving bowl and they serve us the drinks we ordered without serving glass)... Poorly sequenced. Other restaurant serves us drinks while waiting for the food, and we need to follow up the drinks . I'm very disappointed on this kind of service 4. I understand that It takes time to prepare the food but serving us cold??!! Unacceptable!! I expect a quality food served hot because of the price nothing more... I did not get the full value of what I paid for... I am very disappointed. I don't expect hotel type of service... A least make it palatable and service it hot... We pay good money and we expect good service!!

Very good place and good food for an affordable price . their tag line really suits their resto . will visit again next time 🙂🙂

Nice place good ambience gotosarap. Ill try the sinanglao next time

I enjoyed the place and the food. There was a slight problem with the restroom.

typical filipino foods restaurant. affordable price with good taste.

Walked to the place 9 am. The log menus are readilly available within 3 mins. The place is spacious and clean. The waiters are very fast in attending our needs. Nice place to check when you are in Vigan.

Cheap and yummy, best choice to dine in. Can easily be 5/5, but the 2 times I've been here, food I picked was sold out. They also had 2 TVs running 2 different channels next to each other, so you can't understand anything.

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.

It's worth the time visiting this magnificent place. This area is filled with Spanish colonial architecture buildings (houses, hotels, restaurants, merchandise, etc.) if you enjoy such aesthetics you'll have a field day in here. Take care!

4 hours ride if you're from Baguio city. This is a must go place if you're into historic shiz. Although some of the walls were covered with cement making it look modernized (even some of the houses don't look old anymore) Still a good place to take pictures and buy souvenirs

Crisologo Street is a beautiful place to visit in Vigan. It looks nice during the day, but it’s even better at night. The lights make the old houses glow and bring the street to life. It’s peaceful, clean, and perfect for walking, taking photos, and buying souvenirs.

Calle Crisologo will truly take you back in time! This is one of the best places to spend a vacation in the Philippines. The area in Vigan City, Ilocos Sur perfectly combines food, culture, and an authentic local experience. Tourists have everything they need right here: shops, souvenirs, restaurants, beautiful heritage houses and buildings, and that wonderful, nostalgic feeling of the 1800s. A must-visit!

A living history museum that showcases the lifestyle and culture of the Ilocano people during the Spanish colonial period. Streets are lined with well-preserved Spanish colonial houses, shops, and restaurants. It offers a better look at night and is bustling with tourists and horse carts. Awesome experience, really felt authentic (and it was!)

A street turned to museum, the other streets have old houses too but this particular street has really preserved its long strip. Tourists flock here and aside from the heritage houses, you can also find restaurants and souvenir shops here. This is the gem of Ilocos Norte.

Travel back in time and be in the Spanish era, when streets are made of cobbled stones and windows are made of capiz shells. The place invokes sentimental emotions, as it echoes days of a distant past. I do hope they remove all stores and signages there and make it a real heritage village. That will preserve it longer for future generations.

A treasure! Time travel in this Spanish colonial architecture. The vintage site lets you walk on the cobblestone freely and take photos or videos as you want. If you want good photos, you can also come in the morning because the glare from the street lamps can get in the way at night. It was tough to get decent photos at night unless you have a super good camera. In this place, the old and the new merges into an extraordinary experience of the lifetime. The evening here is different from the morning hussle and buzz of the regular street. There wasn't any night market besides religious items, flowers, and a few souvenir shops open. Since it rained that night, the sought-after Dancing Fountain light show at the Plaza Salcedo was cancelled. Perhaps due to the pandemic, most shops and restaurants along the roads were closed. At the start of your drop-off, there's the old Maybank and some old office near the church. Walk further to find a statue for some background on an important person behind this site. It really feels like a normal street open to vehicles, and yet extraordinary too with all that cobblestone and walking. Calle Crisologo is the most famous street here, we walked it from end to end. If you know Philippine history, you'd easily recognize the Calle Mabini on the side as one named after Apolonario Mabini. And there were several others like Calle Luna, and so on that you'd pass through. If you're up for it, take the romantic, single horse-drawn carriage, locally called kalesa, a ride for only 200 pesos and fits two people at the center and one person beside the coach driver. It goes for 10 minutes around the site. But it's bumpy and can be fast that you need a more proper video camera besides your phone to take videos. When we came, there was only one operational kalesa ride, you can imagine how long we waited for our turn! There are sides well-preserved and other sides that seemed like they came out of some ruins or the end of World War II feel. I hope they put some good budget and restore these other parts of the street before they fall apart. Coming here in Vigan is most nostalgic and it feels like an introduction to Europe's classic streets as if you're watching Princess Sara or some time-period drama. If you want food, there was one restaurant with outdoor dining that was open near where the Kalesa ride line was. But we didn't have the time to try them as it looked pricey.

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.

We dined in on December 22, 2024. • Service crew feels to be not very welcoming. • Dining place is so dark, meh. • Ordered Special Empanada with Pork Longganisa. It was not served hot. • Then immediately ordered additional okoy, but it was never served to our table. All of their people came out to the dining area, just sitting on a corner, just doing their own things. We keep staring on them just like reminding them that we still have orders not yet served, however, they don't seem to care about their customer. • Worst, we accidentally drank expired softdrinks (**see on picture for the expiry date). We only knew it when we drank some already because some of us have tasted something off with the drink. ews 🤮 NOT GOING BACK HERE ANYMORE. Considering that Miss U went here but the food and service they offer in Irene's is crap, what a bummer. Go to CJ's, Nanang Cion's, or at the Plaza Burgos area instead. You can be so sure that you'll be eating freshly cooked empanadas there.

very good empanadas if you eat them freshly made. do not let them sit as they’re pretty oily and that oil will settle and make your crust damp and soggy. combo jumbo comes with pinakurat which is a good addition to the empanada. will be trying out other empanada flavors (like sisig) on my next trip here

Empanada was yum but too crispy. on my next buys i asked the cook to not too cook the empanada so i can still feel feel the smooth texture of the wrapper (coz how they cook it, they cook too long so it becomes too crispy) and it was SUPERB, i want my vinegar to be spicy hopefully they have coz the one they have is not spicy at all. But must try the double meat with eggz. not a fun of crispy okoy coz it lacks veggie and shrimp.

The best empanadas i’ve had in vigan. Im coming here for 4 times straight during my stay and it really says a lot about their quality 👏 dont question about the ambience, its as local as it can get with the “sinetron filipina” playing on their cubical tv 😂

Since the place is within Casa Crisologo, it's pretty busy but the service is fast. We were lucky to get a table. The food is not oily and you can get full in just one piece of empanada. Will surely comeback for more and recommend this place for authentic Vigan empanada

I love the empanada.The outer cover is thin yet crispy. i Super love the overloaded filling and the unli vinegar.

BEST EMPANADAS I HAVE EVER HAD I knew Vigan City is famous for crispy empanadas; I did not expect Irene's empanadas to be life-changing. I really, REALLY love the crispy exterior. I actually don't like dough-y puff pastries that are typically associated with empanadas, so I'm already in love with the Vigan-style empanadas. I ordered the Combo Jumbo for 110 php; worth every piso. Great balance of cabbage, egg, and meat. I got more for the road, because they are that good. You must try Irene's empanadas at least once in your life.

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

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.

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)

Very nice small coffee shop. Many varieties of hot and cold drinks. Also a selection of other affordable food options. Service is very friendly.

It's a nice coffee shop with relaxing ambiance. It's homey, simple, jiust the way you'd like to have coffee at home. It's my most liked coffee shop in Vigan. Being near Calle Crisologo makes a good suggestion for tourists finding a place to stop by. Their coffees are nice. I just don't undersdand why they automatically give KremTop with their nice Caffe Latte. Okay na sana, nasira pa. And all dressings in their food (salad, sandwich) are so sweet full of sugar. Otherwise, this place is recommended.

Great coffee at a corner of calle crisologo. Less crowded compared to the other places more visible. A nice respite from the heat of the mid day.

Coffee Break is located at the heart of Vigan. Try their coffee specialties and iced drinks. The price is affordable and the food is great . We tried the Bagnet with rice and egg and it is really fulfilling to our palate. The Hot Chocolate which is the Salcedo Drink is a natural table drink. Visit Vigan and visit Cofee Break Vigan .

The place is really humble. Not really spacious but it’s a good place to hangout in the heart of Vigan City. Price is appropriate for the serving. Staff are friendly.

I must say that their cappucino tastes as good as the one from Starbucks but for a much much cheaper price. They have wifi just ask for the password at the counter. The tocino was good.

Good place to chill after spending a very warm weather in Calle Crisologo. You can charge your phone here but needs to pay 50 PHP.

Twice they gave me a wrong order when I specifically asked for wings and breast part ONLY for a bucket meal. I ordered for a 2pc burger steak but only gave me 1pc - both orders were for drive thru!

Timing mentioned 24hrs, but at 9.40 PM on 19th July 2025, Saturday it's closed. Then we ate in nearby restaurant.

The service in this branch is quite slow. Even though there are only two customers in front of me, I was only served for more than 30 minutes. I placed a take out order. And I got really disappointed and mad when tha spaghetti sauce tasted like spoiled.

the last time we went here was around 6 in the morning so we were the only people inside the place

A Jollibee branch that has a Spanish Era feel. It is in front of the famous dancing fountain. This branch has a drive through but is usually jampacked from 6-7PM.

As expected, this local fast food resto is packed with customers. The staff are nice and polite despite its busy atmosphere.

So many customer here, can't blame that cos this brands really famous and originate here in Philippine. Thay provide a really valuable meal set for everyone and also as good as it get.

Ok same Mcdo food we have elsewhere in the Philippines. The structure is made of the vintage ones. There is a drive through facility

Your usual McDonalds, food taste same as in every branch. Service her was fast. Everyone use the kiosk which made food preparation quicker. Clean eating area, customers practice CLAYGO, toilets are clean, has water and soap.

Well maintained. Quarter Pounder is still ok, no change in taste. Service crew doesn't know their store number.

I ordered Medium Shake Shake Fries but the problem is instead of giving me medium size fries, they gave me regular size fries. 🙃. Only large and medium size are available yet they gave me the regular size?? 💀. Regular size shake shake fries isn't even an option in the Kiosk Machine. The Kiosk machines kept freezing while I was ordering my food. I also noticed that it happened to other customers too. It's such a hassle for the customers especially during lunch or dinner. Please fix it.

Service is slow as hell. When presented with food substitutions, options are inferior compared to original order, no offer to compensate the price difference. Al Fresco area also stinks and not well ventilated.

This is a branch of the American fast food chain McDonald's that's located near calle crisologo in vigan, Ilocos sur, northern Philippines. This branch's architecture too a cue from the local architecture so it's got a local look in line with the theme in this old quarter of vigan. You can order burgers, fries, sundaes, fried chicken and spaghetti

This review is in comparison with other McDonald's joint. Similar comfort food that is served hot with great location. You can have a good view of the town proper from the 2nd floor. They also have a mini playground at the ground floor. Lots of counters were open but the service may still take a bit longer because it is pretty busy.

This place was near calle crisologo. We ordered the special double longanisa Empanada and an okoy. Everything was made fresh. We really liked the Empanada and how they provided onions, salt, and chili on the side so you can customize your dipping sauce. The okoy had Longanisa and no shrimps so I found that a bit weird. The staff weren't really friendly and it wss confusing to see where you should line up to order. Despite of that they still had the best Empanada i had. The dough was light and airy, egg was perfectly cooked and everything was just balanced.

Being someone who wants more umami, their food is just the average. Overall its great and commendable, its just that it does not have the taste I expected. The ambiance is great , very homey and you feel dining in a place hundrerd years back. One thing worth noting are the staff, seems not so friendly and not in the mood. Doesnt even know how to greet customers right.

Just when I thought all iloko empanadas taste the same, this place proves me wrong. Even the dough they use tastes better. Their okoy priced at 70 was also very crisp and delicious. I had the double double empanada and both the dough and filling were delicious especially when doused with their vinegar which is sour with a hint of sweetness. Really good value and delicious, this place is worth going back for more.

My main objective when I visited Vigan is to find the best empanada and yes I did find it! This rustic themed eatery serves the best empanada in the whole of Vigan. They're made fresh as they will cook right in front of you. They also served one of the best Okoy, easy top three for me. What we ordered: Empanada King Double double special all meat Bagnet Empanada Okoy

For some reason their empanada is a notch higher than other empanadas I've tried. Same simple ingredients, but the taste of their dough and batter for the okoy, they did it right. The service is a little slow, but the taste, price, and ambience makes up for it.

Good, simple, super tasty! Get okoy. Empanada is not my favorite but here is the beat I have had so far in the Philippines. Place is simple but authentic. Grandma cooking

We went here on a Sunday afternoon, not many customers. We ordered the bestseller empanada and cucumber lemonade pitcher. Excellent food, as it was served hot right from the kawali. Yum. Although we waited quite a bit as we didn't expect that there were outside orders ahead of us.. we were not informed. Whole experience was great.

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.

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.

The Parish of Saint Augustine of Hippo (Bantay Church) is a true treasure of the Northern Philippines. It was once among the best-restored and best-preserved churches in Ilocos Sur, but was sadly damaged by the July 27, 2022 earthquake. It is presently undergoing restoration. We sincerely hope this northern treasure can be saved for future generations to enjoy.

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.

Great place to just sit, relax and wait if you're in Vigan and needs a place to do those especially when waiting for someone or some processes to be done.

Nice place to unwind/hangout with friends

Affordable variety of foods, for a date or family treat.. for group on budget try 828 Pizza Station with their Pizza Saver Combo🥰. If you want to try local ,Nanang Sions empanada and okoy best recommended.

Lovely park for children near the big stadium and swimming pool with a few food vendors nearby.

A lovely place to go through, with their sport facilities to enhance youth skills in sports

nice place for family bonding... beautiful park n playground for the kids

Small but an happy place with welcoming meadows to spend some time on evenings

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 🫶✨

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.

Stepping into First Sinanglaoan in Vigan, I knew I was in for something special. One sip of their rich, savory sinanglao, and I could taste the heart of Ilocano cuisine—tender beef, flavorful broth, and that signature hint of bile for a bold, authentic kick. This place isn’t just about food; it’s about tradition. Every bowl tells a story of Vigan’s culinary heritage, making it a must-try for any foodie or traveler looking for an authentic local experience. If you're in town, don’t miss this comforting, flavor-packed dish! Perfect after a long road trip! 🚗🍜✨ #ViganEats #SinanglaoExperience #Haiahground #Haiahride

You need to be early if you want the best parts of the beef - the eyes, brain, heart and other more. But if you don't want to eat beef organs it's okay since they also have just beef's meat (laman). An order of sinanglao comes with several pieces of beef's blood, beef's skin and red onions with unli sabaw / refillable soup. There's a separate bottle for papait sauce if you want papaitan. There's always a line but the service is fast, just took us 5 mins waiting for our turn. The price for an order of sinanglao is Php 90.00, Php 10.00 for the rice and Php 20.00 for the soda (Mountain Dew).

You are served with authentic Sinanglao of Vigan City. Locals eat here. It’s one of the most known Sinanglao Resto in Vigan so expect lots of people. There will be a line but it’s fast moving. You will be asked for what part of the beef you want and you will be the one to cut it to your preferred size. The price is just right for the food and the experience.

First Sinanglaoan: An Early Bird's Delight in Vigan For an unforgettable Vigan breakfast experience, look no further than First Sinanglaoan! As a dedicated "sinanglao" enthusiast, I arrived before 6 am, eager to try their take on this beloved Ilocano dish. Let me tell you, they did not disappoint! First Sinanglaoan lives up to its name. Their authentic recipe is a true crowd-pleaser. The flavorful broth and perfectly cooked meat were a testament to their dedication to tradition. It's no wonder there was already a queue when I arrived – this place is a local favorite! The restaurant itself is a charming affair. Housed in a converted home, it retains a simple, rustic atmosphere. The homey vibes instantly put you at ease, making it a perfect spot to savor a steaming bowl of sinanglao. If you're an early bird seeking an authentic and delicious Vigan breakfast, First Sinanglaoan is a must-visit. Just be prepared to join the queue – their reputation precedes them!

The restaurant is crowded and hot bring foldable or portable fan with you . Food is good.

Food is really great!! Highly worth the price (high CP value);--- very cheap. If you're a budget traveler craving for the sinanglaw and want it in a clean place, this is the right place for you. The place isn't by the main road (a bit walk away from Calle Crisologo). There's like a garden entrance like a family house setting turned into a homely restaurant. For 90pesos sinanglaw solo + 10pesos rice/arrozcaldo, it's pretty cheap. It's best you eat the sinanglaw right away once served hot because it'll go lardy (lard will start to solidify). The auntie serving the sinanglaw asks you what cow cut part you want and she serves it (as long as it's in the pot). Also love the chili vinegar sauce it may be mild but perfect for people not wanting spicy spicy

So yummy and so sulit. Must visit place in Vigan. They are open early in the morning and can cater heaps of people. Tables and chairs are plenty and arranged spaciously for the comfort of the costumers. Sarap talaga. You can pick your own preferred part and you can ask for your soup to be refilled.

I tried their new pork chop. It's really good although the sauce has an overpowering flavor. But the meal is affordable because the serving is good.

Counter are funny we order lumpiang chowfan and siomai chowfan we confirm our order but instead we got 2 lumpiang chowfan. No hard feelings thou.

we arrived and they were sold out. only sweet and t pork was available. i was looking forward to halo halo so i was very disappointed when it was sold out. they turn off AC at the second floor so when it gets busy it gets hot. very hot unfortunately.

We have ordered many times from this food place but it was my first time to be served sprite that tasted like water with bleach on it — not even a hint of sprite. This is not to ruin their image but just to call out. Thank you

After 5 minutes(not exactly), the buzzer beep and I go to counter and the food wasn't there I waited for more than 10 minutes standing there. And the staff didn't just say "Sorry po,I made a mistake" they just ignoring me standing there??

Staff are rude while we are having lunch.They are cleaning the place up in the second floor and they are banging the chairs very loudly and their face was like thunder as if they are not happy that we are there stopping their chores.Please be kind whoever comes to visit and please don’t judge the book by its cover.I don’t often write reviews but today instead of having a good meal with my family we have to rush and it should not be the case.I think this 2 staff needs customer service training.

First of all no available restroom, the A/C is a little cooled and once again no restroom.

Cool place in the centre of Vigan serving craft beer and food! There were six different beers on the menu of which four were available - all were decent and there was plenty of food on offer too. The sampler was a good and cost effective way of trying all of the beers that were available. Lots of seats available too.

Went here around lunch time and saw that they are smoking their meat out front. Food is amazing, their smoked meats are INCREDIBLY tender. It's also relatively cheap for the serving size. Sides are also good, especially the coleslaw. I also enjoyed their craft beer tasters! Street parking is available. I saw some mice and lizards crawling around.

Place is very cozy. Dining area is big enough. The building is an old building approx 100yrs. old as you can see the evidence 1meter (3'3") wall with timber beams and flooring on second floor. They serve bèef steaks and other mouth watering foods. They have their own beer brewery which the crew tour us there. Me and my son are both driving so we just tasted 4 flavors of very satisfying beers. My sister also taste the beer.The crew were so polite they entertained us very well. Our experience there exceptionally very good.

was actually eyeing this place for my vigan vacation since this spot comes up on blog suggestions and facebook as well. went there around 8pm. i thought it was gonna be busy but i was a bit of a slow night. the service was good and the food serving was also fast. loved their beef and its sauce. not a beer connoisseur but it was good. only unfortunate thing was they only had 2 available beer variety for that night. the place is also huge and the AC temperature was perfectly set. not too warm and not too cold. the only thing i was wondering was the additional charge on our bill. the receipt shows only around 600+ but the waiter wrote 800 on the bottom side of the paper and told me to pay that amount. unsure if it was for service charge or he just wanted a tip? didnt bother asking but i hope they made it clear as to what was it for.

5/5! That's still underrated. Wanna know why? Then try it for yourself! Their pork belly is awesome, the white chocolate blond is superb! The beer? Great! A perfect place to fill your tummy and chill out. Bring your dates here, they will love it for sure.

I enjoyed dining in this restaurant, one of the best when in Vigan. Their meat dishes are so huge it is so filling even for big groups. The staff are all very warm and nice, serve very well. The place is very cozy, blends well with what you expect when you visit Vigan. It's also near the touristic Calle Crisologo. This is resto is recommended.

This was a big letdown. They have 6 craft beers on the menu but only 1 was available. They have a big selection of meats on their menu but only 4 were available. Forget the seafood menu. The only thing available was the shrimp dish. We were severed our order of drinks and then our server disappeared for about 12 minutes. We had to order our limited selection of meats through a different waiter. We ordered the pork belly and brisket. The brisket was tasty but the pork belly was a little dry.

One of the absolute best restaurants in Vigan City! Every dish we ordered was amazing. This is the place for pure Ilocano dishes and incredibly fresh seafood. The food quality is top-notch, and the prices are just perfect for the value you receive. The staff is very friendly and efficient, and the whole place gives you a great, authentic local dining experience. My Favorites: The grilled shrimps, grilled squid, tuna belly, and the sinigang sa miso salmon belly are all highly recommended! They also accept PWD, Senior, and Athletes discounts. A definite 5-star experience!

I loved their seafood selections and very pleased with the staff who attended to us. Parking was effortless on a quiet rainy night.

Ordered grilled squid and some other stuff. Food was fine, just took a while to arrive. It was such a busy day. Still giving 5 stars. Locals and tourists alike love this place for good reason. Will come back if I'm in town and hunting for seafood. Parking can be challenging!

TBH, the food was magnificent and the ambience was splendid although there's no aircond provided, only fan. Unfortunately, there was electricity shutdown, twice, which they started the noisy generator to bring back the electricity. Summary: Back-up generator should always be switched on in case there's a blackout, which is quite common in the Philippines.

Good food. Staff were kind and accommodating. Parking space available for customers. We ordered boodle for 6 and it came more than what we expected. Good for groups, friends and family.

Food was amazing! View is nice also. Only problem here is that there are only really dishes for big groups. So if you’re less than 5 people, it’s hard to order what you want because you have to order such big portions.

A good place for family dining. Seafood and local food are delicious. No small menu for couples, recommended if you want seafood