Top 10 Instagrammable Places in iloilo City
Iloilo City is known as the “City of Love”. It is said that Iloilo City was the first city outside of Manila to have a concrete road, and ships were made here, representing the city’s happy beaches as the entry point for trade. The increasing number of modern buildings, hotels, condominiums, commercial centers, and townships are all indicators of the country’s booming economy in the present day. Those who are looking to get away from the noise and bustle of the city and simply relax will find that this location is ideal. Because the traffic isn’t nearly as bad as it is in Manila, getting around the city is actually rather enjoyable.
1 Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral
The Jaro Metropolitan Cathedral is one of the city’s most recognizable places in Iloilo and a famous landmark due to its beautiful architecture and the love of its believers. It is also an Iloilo tourist spot. No visit to Iloilo is complete without paying a visit to the National Shrine of Our Lady of the Candles. Jaro Cathedral’s bell tower, which overlooks Jaro Plaza, has a strikingly unique design. The earthquake destroyed the old church building, but the tower survived.
Don’t forget to take images of Jaro Cathedral if you like architecture and history and want to fit in with the vibe of the City of Love on Instagram. The cathedral’s exterior and main entrance feature a staircase leading up to a shrine dedicated to Our Lady of the Candles, which overlooks the plaza.
Location: In the district of Jaro in Iloilo City, Iloilo, on the island of Panay in the Philippines
Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm Daily
2. Molo Church
The Molo Church, also known as Saint Anne’s Parish, is a popular tourist spot in Iloilo. Because all of the saints represented within its walls are women, this religious organization is often referred to as the Church of the Women or the Feminist Church. The special feature of this structure is that it was constructed in 1831 and uses white coral rocks and egg whites. Molo Plaza, located just in front of the church, is a popular gathering place for local Filipinos on Sundays.
Location: 132 San Pedro St, Molo, Iloilo City, 5000 Iloilo, Philippines
Opening hours: Close for Mon and Fri; for Tues , Wed , Thurs , Sat , and then 9 am to 12 pm & 3 pm to 5 pm
3. Molo Mansion
The Molo Mansion, once a private residence, is now an iconic pasalubong shop and tourist attraction in Iloilo. One of the most popular places to visit in iloilo. The first story is where you’ll find the Kultura booth and souvenir shop, while the second floor features an art show. This magnificent building is perfect for posting on social media. It’s in front of the Molo District Plaza, so it’s convenient for sightseers. This 1950s home is stunning and has a lot of history. It was rumored to be haunted and cursed, so instead of leaving it abandoned, it was turned into a tourist attraction with a store. This has become Iloilo’s most important historical home and has been carefully conserved both externally and internally. There is a souvenir shop there where you can pick up some souvenirs to take home with you.
Location: Yusay-Consing Mansion, Locsin St, Molo, Iloilo City, Iloilo, Philippines
Opening hours: Mon to Sat 10 am to 7 pm , Sun 9 am to 7 pm
4. Gigantes Islands
If you like to explore the islands, you should add the Gigantes Islands to your trip. It is a paradise unlike any other, and anyone who wants to understand why it is such a famous location in Iloilo should go there at least once. Islas de Gigantes, which can be found in the most northern part of the province of Iloilo, is a paradise that you simply must go to if you have a passion for beaches and beautiful scenery. To reach here, you may grab a ride via Carles and Estancia.
Location: Within the larger Western Visayas archipelago in the Visayan Sea. It is part of the municipality of Carles, Iloilo, Philippines, and the northernmost part of Iloilo province.
Opening hours: 24 hours
5. Camia Balay Nga Bato
Are you looking for things to do in Iloilo City? We recommend the Camina Balay Nga Bato is a house that has been around for the past 150 years and can be found in the district of Villa Arevalo. Before the Camias got their hands on it, several different families owned it. Because of its traditional Ilonggo cuisine, it is a popular destination for vacationers.
On the first floor of this stunning stone residence is a shop that sells native woven fabrics as well as food items and dishes, such as Tablea chocolate and batirol for creating a tsokolate, suka (vinegar) and homemade sinamak (spices in vinegar), and Tablea chocolate and batirol for making a tsokolate. On the second story, both the living room and the dining room are decorated with historical artwork and materials that can be learned from.
Location: MGQ7+RXW, Villa Arevalo District, Iloilo City, Iloilo, Philippines
Opening hours: 8 am to 5 pm Daily
6. Pineridge Bucari Mountain Resort
This mountain resort is the ideal location for making precious memories with our friends and family. It is situated in the midst of the foggy mountains, surrounded by nature and vegetation on all sides. This spot is perfect for relaxing and getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Surprisingly, Iloilo City can be reached in just under two hours by car. Therefore, if you are too lazy to trek to the top of Bucari, Leon, you can attempt Pineridge instead, and not only will you get a lovely view for your Instagram, but you will also get some exercise.
Location: V8F3+2J5, Unnamed Rd, Leon, Iloilo, Philippines
Opening hours: 24 hours
7. Sicogon Island
Have you ever wanted to go to an island with a beach that seems to go on forever, a thick forest, and beautiful blue water? Are you getting bored so that you thinking of visiting Iloilo City and you don’t know what to do in Iloilo? You should go to Sicogon Island in Northern Iloilo, which is a paradise. It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Iloilo. Aside from the beach, there are many other places to see here, like the ruins of a luxury hotel and Mount Opao, a beautiful mountain with a forest, a natural spring, and a bare rock peak that can be reached in 1–2 hours.
Location: In the northern region of Iloilo, flanked by Panay Island on the west and the Visayan Sea on the east
Opening hours: 24 hours
8. Lizares Mansion
In Tabuc Suba, Jaro, is where you can find the Lizares Mansion. It serves as the location of the Dominican-run Angelicum School in Iloilo. Don Emiliano Lizares built the palace in 1937 for his wife, Concepcion Gamboa, their two boys, and their three daughters. The architecture is in the Romanesque Every Christmas, the mansion’s broad lawn and exterior facade are decorated with lights, drawing nearby tourists to stop and take pictures. Add this to your bucket list of ‘where to go in Iloilo’!
Location: Tabuc Suba, Jaro, Iloilo City
Opening hours: 8 am to 7 pm Daily
9. Sulu Garden
A breathtaking fusion of Japanese and Philippine flora and fauna that results in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere. Just one hour’s drive to the south of Iloilo City brings you to this location. The impressive collection of paintings, antique handcrafted chess boards, model boats, and bamboo crafts at Sulu Garden never fails to impress visitors. You are free to snap pictures in any part of Sulu Garden, and I can guarantee that whatever you capture will make an excellent addition to your Instagram story.
Location: J6RM+766, Iloilo-Antique Road, Miagao, Iloilo, Philippines
Opening hours: 10:30 am to 8 pm Daily
10. Iloilo River Esplanade
An attractive riverside walkway that is also a favorite tourist destination due to its quiet views of the Iloilo River. It is one of the best spots in Iloilo to spend time with friends or family engaging in activities that take place outside. It was built as a part of the city’s efforts to improve the beauty of the area. The Iloilo River Esplanade became a major contributor to the happiness of Iloilo, particularly in the areas of tourism and pleasure. That is why it is in the top 10 tourist spots in Iloilo.
Location: Along the Iloilo River in Iloilo City
Opening hours: 24 hours
Final Thoughts
In addition to its rich history, the city of Iloilo also boasts picturesque beaches and islands, old buildings, and delicious local food. The gorgeous natural features and welcoming people of the region will quickly become your new favorite vacation spot.
Common Questions About iNSTAGRAMMABLE PLACES IN ILOILO CITY
Iloilo City is full of Instagram-worthy spots. Some popular ones include the Iloilo Esplanade, Molo Mansion, Garinfarm Pilgrimage Resort, Museo Iloilo, Jaro Cathedral, and The Ruins in Guimaras Island.
Most of these places are easily accessible by public transportation such as taxis or jeepneys. You can also hire a tricycle or rent a car for more convenience. Just ask the locals for directions, and they will be happy to guide you.
The best time to visit these places is typically during the early morning or late afternoon when the lighting is ideal for photography. Avoiding weekends or public holidays can also help you capture some great shots without too many people around.
Some places may have entrance fees, while others are free to enter. The Iloilo Esplanade and Jaro Cathedral, for example, are free attractions. However, places like Garinfarm Pilgrimage Resort may charge a minimal entrance fee. It is recommended to check in advance to avoid any surprises.
It’s best to wear comfortable and stylish outfits that fit the aesthetics of the location. For example, if you plan to visit The Ruins, a vintage-inspired dress or casual wear with neutral tones could complement the historic ambiance. Don’t forget to wear comfortable footwear as you may need to walk around.
Yes, it’s always important to prioritize safety while exploring new places. Be aware of your surroundings, especially if you’re carrying valuable photography equipment. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and bring a bottle of water when visiting outdoor locations. Also, be respectful of the sites and local customs while taking pictures.
Affordable activities in Iloilo, such as exploring festivals, picturesque streets, cathedrals, and popular local food vendors.
Iloilo, located in the Philippines, is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 3-day trip to Iloilo:
Day 1: Explore Iloilo City
Day 2: Guimaras Island Day Trip
Day 3: Cultural and Culinary Exploration
Iloilo Province comprises 42 municipalities and two cities, with one being a component city and the other designated as highly urbanized.
You can reach Sicogon Island by taking commercial flights to either Roxas City or Iloilo City. Allow approximately 1.5 hours or 2.5 hours of travel time from Roxas City and Iloilo City airports, respectively, to reach Estancia Port. From there, you can then board the designated outrigger boat that will take you to Sicogon Island.
Iloilo, situated in the heart of the Philippine archipelago, is a province in the Philippines. It covers the southeastern portion of Panay Island, and the island-province of Guimaras is situated just off its coast. The City of Iloilo serves as the provincial capital and stands as a significant urban hub in the country, earning the moniker “the Heart of the Philippines.”
Iloilo City is recognized for its historic churches and renowned for the production of jusi (raw silk) and piña (pineapple fiber) textiles. Additionally, it serves as the location for Central Philippine University (established in 1905), the University of San Agustín (founded in 1904), and West Visayas State College (established in 1924).
Iloilo is renowned for its meticulously maintained historical landmarks that trace their origins to the Spanish period in the Philippines, encompassing ancestral residences and Catholic churches. Additionally, it holds significance as the birthplace of culinary delights such as La Paz Batchoy and Pancit Molo.
The City of Iloilo serves as the capital of the Iloilo province and stands as a prominent urban hub in the Philippines, earning the moniker “The Heart of the Philippines.”
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