Iloilo

Philippines

Saturday, August 30, 2025

Sunrise

5:39 AM

Sunset

6:02 PM

About

Iloilo, a charming city in the Philippines, is a hub of culture, history, and gastronomy. With its rich heritage, the city boasts of stunning Spanish colonial architecture, delicious seafood cuisine, and vibrant festivals such as the Dinagyang Festival. Visitors can also enjoy the calm and serene atmosphere of Jaro Cathedral, Molo Mansion, and the Iloilo River Esplanade. Truly a destination that offers a perfect blend of history, culture, and modernity.

30 Best Places to Visit

1. Miagao Church

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the baroque-style Miagao Church features intricate carvings and reliefs on its exterior walls.
2. Museo Iloilo

This museum showcases the rich history and culture of Iloilo, with exhibits that include colonial-era artifacts and art.
3. Guimbal Church

The Church of St. Nicholas of Tolentino in Guimbal is a beautifully preserved example of Spanish colonial architecture.
4. Jaro Cathedral

The National Shrine of Our Lady of the Candles, also known as Jaro Cathedral, is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Jaro.
5. Iloilo River Esplanade

This scenic boardwalk along the Iloilo River is a popular spot for jogging, cycling, or just enjoying the view.
6. Camina Balay nga Bato

This heritage house museum provides a glimpse into the lives of Iloilo's wealthy families during the Spanish colonial period.
7. Molo Church

The Church of St. Anne in Molo is famous for its 16 statues of female saints and its Gothic-inspired architecture.
8. Smallville Complex

This entertainment venue features a variety of restaurants, bars, and clubs, making it a hub for Iloilo's nightlife scene.
9. Casa Mariquit

Built in 1803, this ancestral house in Arevalo is one of the oldest surviving structures in Iloilo.
10. Iloilo Convention Center

This state-of-the-art facility hosts conferences, exhibitions, and other events, and features an iconic sail-like design.
11. Calle Real

This historic street in downtown Iloilo is lined with colorful buildings, shops, and restaurants, and is a popular spot for shopping and dining.
12. Biscocho Haus

This local bakery is known for its irresistible biscocho (toasted bread) and other Filipino sweets.
13. Janiuay Cemetery

The intricately decorated gravestones and mausoleums in this cemetery in Janiuay make it a unique attraction.
14. Lapaz Public Market

This bustling market is a great place to sample local food and shop for souvenirs, including the famous healing oil made from coconut.
15. Guimaras Island

This idyllic island paradise is just a short boat ride from Iloilo, and is known for its sweet mangoes, pristine beaches, and scenic nature spots like the Guimaras Windmills and Guisi Lighthouse.
16. Museo de Iloilo Shop

Located inside the Museo de Iloilo, this souvenir shop offers a wide range of locally made crafts and souvenirs.
17. Tigbauan Church

The Church of St. John of Sahagun in Tigbauan boasts a striking neoclassical facade and imposing bell tower.
18. Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art

This museum showcases the works of emerging and established Filipino artists, and hosts art talks and workshops.
19. Plaza Libertad

This public square in the heart of downtown Iloilo is a popular spot for relaxation and selfies, with its ornate fountain and towering flagpole.
20. Molo Mansion

This stately home in Molo was once the residence of a prominent sugar baron, and now serves as a cultural center and museum.
21. La Paz Batchoy

This hearty noodle soup with pork, shrimp, and noodles is Iloilo's signature dish, and there are many restaurants that specialize in it, such as Netong's and Deco's.
22. Casa Real de Iloilo

This colonial-era building now houses the Iloilo Provincial Capitol, and is a fine example of neoclassical architecture.
23. Nelly's Garden

This sprawling estate in Jaro is a popular venue for weddings and events, and features lush gardens and a vintage mansion.
24. Paraw Regatta Festival

This annual festival celebrates the sailing traditions of the Visayan people, and features colorful paraws (outrigger boats) racing along the Iloilo Strait.
25. Tinagong Dagat

This hidden beach in Igbaras is a scenic spot for swimming and sunbathing, with its white sand and clear waters.
26. Sto. Tomas de Villanueva Church

The Church of St. Thomas of Villanueva in Miagao is another UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its impressive fortress-like appearance and intricate carvings.
27. Bucari Pine Forest

This mountain retreat in Leon offers a cool respite from the lowland heat, with its pine trees and picturesque hiking trails.
28. Banate Beach

This long stretch of white sand beach in Banate is a popular spot for camping, picnics, and beach volleyball.
29. Sicogon Island

This off-the-beaten-path island in Carles features pristine beaches, lush forests, and a laid-back vibe.
30. Balay nga Bato

This restored ancestral house in Jaro now serves as a cultural center and museum, showcasing the lifestyle and traditions of Iloilo's old aristocracy.