Vigan
UNESCO Heritage City of the North
Overview
Vigan is a UNESCO World Heritage City, the best-preserved example of a Spanish colonial town in Asia. Its cobblestone streets, ancestral houses, and horse-drawn carriages transport visitors back to the Spanish era, while Ilocano culture and cuisine make it uniquely Filipino.
Vigan, officially the City of Vigan, is a component city and capital of the province of Ilocos Sur, Philippines. According to the 2024 census, it has a population of 54,498 people.
Read more on WikipediaVigan is a city in Ilocos Sur, Northern Luzon. Its Spanish colonial influence in local architecture and old-world charm make it a unique city in the Philippines.
Top Attractions
Calle Crisologo
Iconic cobblestone street lined with Spanish-era houses
St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral
Earthquake Baroque church from 1574
Bantay Bell Tower
Spanish watchtower with panoramic views
Syquia Mansion
Ancestral house of former President Quirino
Crisologo Museum
Museum in the ancestral home of the Crisologo family
Plaza Salcedo
Main plaza with dancing fountain show at night
Pagburnayan Jar Factory
Watch traditional burnay pottery being made
Hidden Garden
Landscaped garden with local sculptures
Things to Do
Kalesa Ride
Horse-drawn carriage tour around heritage sites
Heritage Walking Tour
Guided walk through Calle Crisologo and museums
Pottery Making
Try making burnay jars at Pagburnayan
Abel Weaving Demo
Watch traditional Ilocano cloth weaving
Night Photography
Capture Calle Crisologo lit by antique lamps
Food Tour
Sample empanada, longganisa, and local delicacies
Bantay Church & Bell Tower
Climb the tower for sunset views
Photo Gallery
Klook Philippines
Discover and book amazing experiences across the Philippines. Best price guaranteed!
Explore DealsGetting There
- Bus from Manila (Partas, Dominion) - 8-10 hours
- Fly to Laoag + 1.5 hour van to Vigan
- Drive via TPLEX - 6-7 hours
Local Food
Vigan Empanada
Crispy orange crepe with egg, longganisa, and papaya
Vigan Longganisa
Garlicky local sausage - best at Cafe Leona
Bagnet
Crispy deep-fried pork belly, Ilocos specialty
Pinakbet
Mixed vegetable dish with bagoong (shrimp paste)
Where to Stay
Calle Crisologo
₱2,000-6,000/nightHeritage hotels in ancestral houses
Near Plaza Burgos
₱1,000-3,000/nightWalking distance to food and attractions
Outside Heritage Zone
₱800-2,500/nightModern hotels with parking
Resorts
₱2,500-8,000/nightBeach resorts in nearby Cabugao
Weather Forecast
Travel Tips
- •Visit Calle Crisologo at night for magical lamp-lit atmosphere
- •Eat empanada at Plaza Burgos - it's crispiest when fresh
- •Buy pasalubong at Rowilda's (bagnet) and Irene's (longganisa)
- •Watch the dancing fountain show at Plaza Salcedo (7pm & 8:30pm)
- •Combine with Laoag and Pagudpud for a complete Ilocos trip
- •Hire a kalesa for the full heritage experience
- •Visit during Kannawidan Festival (January) for cultural shows
Best Time to Visit
Vigan Longganisa Festival in January; avoid summer heat