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  1. Philippines 🎫
  2. Iloilo

Discover Iloilo

About Iloilo, Philippines

Iloilo is a province located in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines, with Iloilo City serving as its capital. The city is situated on the southeastern coast of Panay Island and has a population of approximately 460,000 residents. Known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance, Iloilo is a focal point for economic and educational activities in the region. As a travel destination, Iloilo offers a blend of historical landmarks and natural attractions that provide diverse experiences for visitors. A journey to Iloilo involves exploring these sites, understanding its tropical climate, and navigating its transport facilities.

Main Points of Interest in Iloilo
  • Miagao Church: A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Baroque architecture.
  • Molo Church: A Gothic-style church dedicated to St. Anne.
  • Iloilo River Esplanade: A scenic walkway ideal for leisure activities.
  • Jaro Cathedral: Famous for the miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary.
  • GarinFarm Pilgrimage Resort: Combines agriculture, leisure, and spiritual experiences.
Climate and Best Times to Visit Iloilo

Iloilo features a tropical climate, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May. The best time to visit is during the dry months, particularly January to March, when temperatures range from 24°C to 32°C (75°F to 90°F), offering pleasant weather for outdoor activities.

Budget and Travel Costs in Iloilo

Iloilo is generally affordable for travelers, with options to suit various budgets. Prices are estimates and subject to change (approx. 56 PHP to 1 USD).

  • Accommodation:
    • Budget Hotel: $20 - $40 USD (1,120 - 2,240 PHP) per night.
    • Mid-range Hotel: $40 - $80 USD (2,240 - 4,480 PHP) per night.
  • Food & Drink:
    • Local Eatery Meal: $2 - $5 USD (112 - 280 PHP).
    • Restaurant Dining: $10 - $20 USD (560 - 1,120 PHP).
  • Activities:
    • Museum Entry: $1 - $3 USD (56 - 168 PHP).
    • Guided Tours: $15 - $30 USD (840 - 1,680 PHP).
Transportation To and From Iloilo

Iloilo serves as a key transport hub in the Western Visayas.

  • Air Travel: Iloilo International Airport (ILO) connects the city to Manila, Cebu, and other major Philippine cities.
  • Sea Travel: Iloilo Port provides ferry services to Bacolod and other nearby islands.
  • Land Travel: Buses and vans are available for routes to nearby provinces and popular destinations like Boracay and Antique.

Flight from Iloilo

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
10
193
00:05
23:59
5h54m
$25.53
  5.0
11
303
00:05
23:59
2h26m
$25.24
  4.2
13
172
00:05
23:50
8h10m
$27.40
  4.0
6
88
00:10
23:50
8h22m
$28.33
10
64
02:35
23:59
10h17m
$29.33
13
112
00:10
23:50
9h15m
$33.37
6
43
00:10
23:50
11h36m
$41.24
7
10
06:05
22:50
7h57m
$41.41
9
128
00:05
23:50
8h22m
$50.99
10
127
00:05
23:50
8h17m
$31.48
10
109
00:05
23:50
7h49m
$27.08
10
162
00:05
23:59
7h21m
$27.64
9
120
00:05
23:50
8h29m
$33.15
9
61
00:10
23:50
8h40m
$48.06
3
4
00:10
22:35
8h58m
$43.00
6
14
10:20
23:45
11h34m
$72.62
2
15
00:10
23:50
14h44m
$96.31
2
3
06:10
22:35
9h46m
$171.68
7
29
00:10
23:50
10h40m
$75.97
1
1
21:00
21:00
19h25m
$264.96

Bus from Iloilo

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
2
06:00
07:00
22h0m
$26.59
  3.0
1
1
04:00
04:00
31h0m
$33.45

Ferry from Iloilo

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
42
01:00
19:00
1h0m
$9.79
  4.0
1
13
18:00
19:00
12h0m
$24.01
  4.2
1
58
01:30
21:30
23h5m
$18.63
  4.4
1
11
01:30
19:30
13h0m
$39.13
  4.9
1
17
04:30
18:30
0h30m
$0.60
1
2
08:00
16:00
1h20m
$2.40
1
2
15:00
15:00
40h0m
$45.18
1
2
15:00
15:00
12h0m
$20.91
1
7
19:00
19:00
14h0m
$40.46

Flight to Iloilo

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
9
388
00:00
23:55
5h16m
$18.06
  5.0
10
271
00:30
23:59
7h6m
$24.04
  5.0
9
156
04:40
23:45
8h54m
$27.40
  4.5
9
62
01:35
20:30
7h29m
$28.28
7
54
07:10
22:35
7h57m
$52.23
  5.0
10
76
07:15
22:30
6h53m
$30.12
6
91
06:35
20:05
7h47m
$29.88
10
16
01:25
23:10
10h31m
$145.62
9
53
00:20
21:20
15h23m
$100.92
9
127
06:10
23:55
8h48m
$50.58
6
210
00:00
23:40
8h9m
$33.44
10
203
06:25
23:59
8h24m
$27.56
12
95
05:55
20:45
8h13m
$47.65
6
87
06:45
20:15
8h39m
$32.40
1
4
10:30
15:45
11h58m
$99.87
10
40
03:25
23:20
15h29m
$130.47
6
33
06:50
21:10
9h30m
$43.84
3
3
19:30
19:30
1h10m
$64.52
6
29
08:40
20:30
12h27m
$131.72
1
1
07:55
07:55
21h55m
$169.20

Bus to Iloilo

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
20
06:00
11:00
23h0m
$25.73
  2.0
1
3
08:30
08:30
29h0m
$33.45
1
1
13:00
13:00
20h0m
$29.19
  5.0

Ferry to Iloilo

DestinationOperatorsOffersFirst DepartureLast DepartureDurationMin PriceRating
1
32
05:45
23:00
1h0m
$9.88
  4.0
1
12
18:00
19:00
12h30m
$24.01
  4.3
1
38
02:00
23:30
23h30m
$16.92
  4.2
1
12
17:30
21:30
13h0m
$20.75
  4.0
1
17
04:30
18:30
0h30m
$0.60
  5.0
1
17
09:30
11:30
17h0m
$20.39
1
2
06:00
12:00
1h20m
$2.06
  5.0
1
8
09:00
09:00
25h0m
$51.94
1
8
20:00
20:00
38h0m
$44.75
1
2
19:00
19:00
40h0m
$45.18
1
2
19:00
19:00
12h0m
$21.11

Popular Questions

What time do people eat in Iloilo?

In Iloilo, meal times often reflect a blend of traditional Filipino customs and modern schedules. Breakfast is typically eaten between 6:00 AM and 8:00 AM, with popular choices being rice, eggs, and tocino or longganisa. Lunch is usually served from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM, often consisting of rice accompanied by meat or seafood dishes. Dinner is generally eaten between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM, and meals might include grilled, fried, or stewed dishes, often with rice.

Snacks, or "merienda," are also common and can be enjoyed mid-morning or mid-afternoon. Local favorites include batchoy (a noodle soup) and various types of kakanin (rice cakes). Dining establishments in Iloilo typically align with these mealtimes, but many offer extended hours to accommodate varying schedules of locals and tourists.

What is the nicest area of Iloilo?

The area of Iloilo City Proper is often considered one of the most appealing for visitors. It serves as the central business district and offers a mix of historic sites, modern amenities, and cultural attractions. Key places to visit include the Iloilo River Esplanade for a scenic walk, and Calle Real, known for its heritage buildings showcasing colonial architecture.

Transportation
The area is well-connected with public transportation, including jeepneys and tricycles. Taxis are also available, with fares starting around 40 PHP ($0.70).

Dining and Shopping
There are numerous dining options featuring local Iloilo cuisine, such as La Paz batchoy and seafood. Shopping enthusiasts can explore malls like SM City Iloilo and small local markets for handmade goods.

Water Safety
Tap water in Iloilo is generally not recommended for drinking without boiling or filtering. Bottled water is widely available. For swimming, nearby beaches like those on Guimaras Island are clean and popular for day trips.

How many foreigners live in Iloilo?

As of the latest available data, Iloilo City hosts a small but notable expatriate community. This includes individuals from South Korea, the United States, and various European countries. The city's foreign population is part of a broader expatriate community in the Philippines, which numbers in the thousands, but specific figures for Iloilo fluctuate due to factors like employment in local businesses, educational opportunities, and retirees. For the most current statistics, checking with local government offices or expat community groups in Iloilo could provide more precise information.

Is it safe to go Iloilo?

Iloilo is generally considered safe for travelers. The city has a low crime rate compared to other urban areas in the Philippines. It is advisable to take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on belongings and avoiding poorly lit areas at night.

Transportation: Public transportation options include jeepneys, tricycles, and taxis. Taxis are relatively affordable, with fares starting around 40 PHP (~$0.70). Ride-sharing apps like Grab are also available.

Water Cleanliness: Tap water is not recommended for drinking. Stick to bottled water, which is widely available. For swimming, popular spots like the beaches on Guimaras Island are monitored for cleanliness and are generally safe.

Local Customs: Iloilo is known for its friendly locals and vibrant festivals, such as the Dinagyang Festival. Respect for local customs and traditions is appreciated.

Dining: Try local specialties such as La Paz Batchoy and Pancit Molo at various eateries and restaurants throughout the city. Prices for meals can range from 100 to 300 PHP ($1.75 to $5.25) depending on the establishment.

How much do you tip in Iloilo?

In Iloilo, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, a typical tip is around 10% of the total bill if service was satisfactory, although some establishments may already include a service charge. For taxi drivers, rounding up the fare or leaving a small tip of around 20-50 PHP ($0.35-$0.90) is customary. Hotel staff, such as bellboys or housekeeping, can be tipped around 20-50 PHP per service. It's always best to check if a service charge is included in your bill to avoid double tipping.