Visiting Vigan City is like traveling back in time because of its preserved Spanish Colonial town that even the world considers it as one of the best. Aside from the magnificent Vigan tourist spots, what makes this city well-loved is its historical and cultural significance that feed not just wanderlust but also a traveler’s mind and soul.
And because Vigan has maintained its authenticity in its grid street pattern, historic urban layout and use of open spaces, UNESCO has inscribed it in the list of World Heritage Sites.
10 Must-Visit Places for Your Vigan Tourist Spots Itinerary
From the popular cobblestone streets to mini zoos, you will never run out of beautiful places to visit in Vigan. Here’s a list of the top 10 Vigan City tourist spots you should explore soon!
1. Calle Crisologo
2.Syquia Mansion Museum
3. RG Jar Factory
4. Bantay Church Bell Tower
5. Baluarte Resort
6. Vigan Cathedral
7. Crisologo Museum
8. Plaza Salcedo
9. Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone
10. Mindoro Beach of Vigan
Read on to discover all the things about the fun and historical places in Vigan.
1. Calle Crisologo
When talking about the best tourist spot in Vigan, the iconic Calle Crisologo immediately pops into mind. The Spanish houses erected here by the wealthy families have been so well-maintained over the years. Tourists can ride a kalesa or simply take a fun walking Vigan tour to see the marvelous heritage houses.
2. Syquia Mansion Museum
Photo credits to Dan Lundberg / Flickr
Located in Quirino Boulevard, the Syquia Mansion Museum has been decorated with antique furniture, paintings, and exhibits from the time of President Elpidio Quirino, a native of Vigan. The stunning house was owned by Quirino’s wife, who belonged to the affluent Syquia family.
3. RG Jar Factory
If you’re looking for a fun tourist spot in Vigan City that is perfect for family bonding, make sure to visit RG Jar Factory where you can make your own pot and jar. The jar makers can demo how it’s done and let you create your own clay pot or jar. The place does not have any entrance fees whatsoever but you could donate any amount, it’s up to you.
4. Bantay Church Bell Tower
The Bantay Church Bell Tower served as the town’s watchtower in 1591. The magnificent view may have been the reason why it was supposedly “Diego and Gabriela Silang’s favorite date spot during the 17th century.”
5. Baluarte Resort
Just 10 minutes away from Calle Crisologo, Baluarte Resort and Mini Zoo lets you get close to nature’s wonderful creatures from cute little birds to big cats a.k.a. tigers. This Vigan Ilocos Sur tourist spot is also dubbed as the “Home of the Big Cats in Vigan,” as it shelters Bengal tigers, white lions, and leopards.
6. Vigan Cathedral
The Vigan Cathedral, also known as the St. Paul’s Cathedral is considered a major religious landmark not only of northern Luzon but the country as well. The original structure was built in 1574 with wood and thatch. It was just a mere chapel then. It was only in 1641 when it was turned into a church and was completed in 1800.
The Vigan Cathedral follows a Baroque architectural design that has been modified by Ilocanos to strengthen the structure against earthquakes which is known as “Earthquake Baroque.” Don’t miss this as it is one of the most beautiful Vigan tourist spots.
7. Crisologo Museum
Another Vigan tourist attraction you should visit is the Crisologo Museum. The ancestral home-turned-museum belonged to one of Vigan’s most prominent sons, the late congressman Floro S. Crisologo. His wife, Carmeling, had their home converted in memory of Floro after he was assassinated in Vigan Cathedral.
8. Plaza Salcedo
Located between Vigan Cathedral and the Provincial Capitol, Plaza Salcedo is a great spot for picture taking at day and turns to a stage of dancing lights at night. The water in the fountain are always right on cue and dances to the beat of the music.
The best part about visiting this tourist spot in Vigan City? It’s totally free!
9. Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone
Photo credits to Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone
If you’re looking for some adrenaline rush, add Ilocos Sur Adventure Zone to your Vigan Tourist Spots itinerary. You can ride a zip line that traverses the towns of Santa and Bantay, so you have a perfect view of the Abra River down below as well as the old and new Quirino bridges.
The sports and recreation facility also offers more adrenaline-pumping activities like a giant swing, kayaking, and rock climbing and rappelling at the rocky Banaoang mountains.
10. Mindoro Beach of Vigan
Who says Vigan City tourist spots are just about historical places? The locals also take pride in their town’s Mindoro Beach that offers a front-facing view of the West Philippine Sea. The sand there is black fine and smooth as powder.
Where to stay in Vigan
ZEN Rooms Balai Mestizo Vigan
Price: From PHP 600/nightZEN Rooms Casa Marita Vigan
Price: From PHP 1700/nightZEN Rooms Calle Crisologo Vigan
Price: From PHP 2500/nightZEN Rooms Basic Metro Vigan Inn
Price: From PHP 599/night