Wondering where Iloilo is? It’s right in the heart of Western Visayas—and it’s calling your name. We got there with zero hassle, thanks to Cebu Pacific’s direct daily flights from General Santos to Iloilo International Airport. Super convenient, especially if you’re itching for a quick getaway packed with culture, food, and fun.
You can also reach Iloilo by sea! The Iloilo Port connects travelers to and from Bacolod, Cebu, and other nearby islands. But if you’re like us and prefer to land quickly and dive into the adventure, flying’s the way to go.
We landed in Iloilo, excited and ready to explore what the city has in store.
Day 1: Iloilo City Feels
As soon as we landed, we were welcomed by Sir Avel and Sir Jhorry from Iloilo Bloggers Inc., who greeted us with a warm smile and a big tarpaulin that said “Welcome to Iloilo” – it was such a heartwarming surprise! We were totally overwhelmed by their kindness and hospitality—it was the perfect start to our Iloilo adventure.
Around 1 PM we checked into Go Hotels Iloilo, which is one of the most accessible hotels in Iloilo City—it’s literally right next to Robinsons Place, perfect if you want to settle in and start exploring ASAP.
First stop? Where to eat in Iloilo was the big question, and Ramboy’s Aklan’s Best Chicken and Liempo answered it deliciously. Their juicy liempo and flavorful chicken hit the spot, and the price? Very friendly to the wallet!
Next, we walked off lunch by visiting some iconic city landmarks:
Molo Church, or the Santa Ana Parish Church, is one of Iloilo’s most iconic landmarks. Built back in the 1800s, this church is known for its stunning Gothic-Renaissance design and its unique coral stone exterior. What really makes it stand out, though, is the collection of sixteen female saint statues inside, which gives it the nickname “The Women’s Church.” It’s not just a place of worship, but a beautiful piece of Iloilo’s history that you won’t want to miss.
Molo Plaza – Right across from Molo Church, you’ll find Molo Plaza—a peaceful spot to take a breather. The park is home to life-size statues of Greek goddesses, making it a great place for some photos. It’s a nice place to relax and take in the old-school charm of the area.
Molo Mansion – A short walk away from the church, Molo Mansion is a gorgeous old building that’s been turned into a cultural hub. It’s filled with local crafts, souvenirs, and cozy cafes. If you’re craving something sweet, definitely try the baye-baye and dark chocolate ice cream from Happy Endings Creamery—trust me, it’s addictive!
A few blocks away is the peaceful Iloilo Esplanade, a beautiful 1.2-kilometer stretch along the Iloilo River. This scenic walkway is perfect for a relaxing riverside stroll, where you can enjoy lush greenery, modern sculptures, and views of the river. The Esplanade is also home to various recreational activities, making it a great spot for jogging, cycling, or simply soaking in the calm atmosphere. At night, the area lights up with vibrant colors, adding to the charm of the place.
Afterward, we hopped on a jeepney (because yes, we wanted to feel like locals!) and made our way to Netong’s La Paz Batchoy at Ayala Atria Mall. Known for serving one of Iloilo’s best batchoy bowls, Netong’s opened its doors in 1963 and quickly became a local favorite. What makes it famous is its rich, flavorful broth made from pork, beef, and chicken—served with noodles, crunchy chicharrón (pork cracklings), and a generous helping of garlic. It’s comfort food at its best and has been delighting customers for over five decades. The dish itself is said to have originated in La Paz, Iloilo, and has since become a must-try when visiting the city.
To wrap up our fun-filled day, we caught a show by the EuroXtreme Circus, which happened to be in town during our visit. This traveling production has been touring across the Philippines, bringing a vibrant mix of thrill, laughter, and spectacle to local audiences. With performers from Europe and Latin America, the show delivered an exciting lineup of acrobatics, stunts, and comedy—all under a massive, air-conditioned Big Top tent.
Thanks to Sir Avel, we had the incredible opportunity to witness the show up close from the VIP row, which made the entire experience even more unforgettable. From the high-adrenaline Globe of Terror motorcycle act to the elegant aerial silk performances, every moment kept us entertained. And of course, Chupetin the Clown had everyone laughing with his interactive comedy routines.
The EuroXtreme Circus has visited cities like Davao, Cebu, and Bacolod, spreading joy and excitement along the way. If it comes to your city, it’s definitely worth catching a show—it’s great fun for families, couples, and anyone who loves a good live performance!
Day 2: A Trip Down South
We started the day with a scenic drive to the University of the Philippines Visayas Miag-ao branch, located in the town of Miag-ao. Established in 1947, the campus is known for its peaceful setting and beautiful natural surroundings. The university is a hub for learning and research, and its campus offers a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a quiet escape.
Next, we made our way to Garin Farm, located in San Joaquin. This farm and pilgrimage site is home to the famous “Stairway to Heaven“, a 480-step ascent that leads you to a spectacular view of Miag-ao and the surrounding countryside. It’s not only a spiritual experience but also a great spot to take in the natural beauty of the area. The view from the top is truly worth the climb, offering panoramic vistas of the landscape.
After our visit to Garin Farm, we headed back to Miag-ao to visit Miag-ao Church, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 18th-century church is renowned for its intricate Baroque architecture and the detailed reliefs that adorn its façade. Built in 1786, it stands as a testament to Iloilo’s rich history and is one of the most iconic landmarks in the province.
Next, we headed to Campo Santo de San Joaquin Cemetery, one of the most beautiful and well-preserved cemeteries in Iloilo. Established in 1847, this cemetery gives off a peaceful, almost haunting vibe with its Spanish-era tombstones and quiet surroundings. What makes it even more special is that it’s still an active cemetery today, managed by the Archdiocese of Jaro.
The place is known for its stunning Baroque-style architecture, and the small chapel inside is a standout with its coral stone walls and red clay bricks. It’s hard not to appreciate the history here, and the whole place is a lovely spot for photos, especially if you’re into old-world charm. Plus, it’s a designated National Cultural Treasure, so you know it holds a lot of historical significance. Definitely a must-visit for anyone who loves exploring places with a deep, rich story to tell.
We also made a quick stop for some photos at the Guimbal Steel Bridge, the longest steel bridge in Western Visayas. It crosses over the Iloilo River and was built during the American colonial period. It’s impressive to see the old-school engineering, and the view from the bridge is gorgeous—perfect for snapping a few photos and taking in the local scenery.
For lunch, we headed to Alicia’s Special Batchoy Restaurant in their Arevalo branch, a local favorite known for its delicious batchoy. This iconic Ilonggo noodle soup is filled with tender pork, savory beef, and a flavorful broth, topped with crunchy chicharrón, garlic, and fresh noodles. What makes Alicia’s stand out is the option to choose from different types of noodles, plus they pair it with native puto (rice cakes) for an extra touch of comfort. And if you’re really hungry, you’re in luck—the servings here are huge! It’s no wonder Alicia’s is so popular with both locals and visitors—it’s the perfect, satisfying meal that really fills you up.
After lunch, we treated our sweet tooth by visiting Camiña Balay nga Bato, a stunning 150-year-old heritage house that’s now a heritage gastronomy and lifestyle museum/destination. This place offers a glimpse into traditional Ilonggo architecture from the Spanish era and is filled with fascinating artifacts that showcase the rich history and culture of the region. While you’re there, be sure to try their Tsokolate de Batirol—a rich, thick hot chocolate made the old-fashioned way using a wooden whisk. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy while soaking in the history, culture, and charm of this beautiful spot.
Back in the City:
After a day of exploring, we stopped by Suisse Cakery at SM Iloilo. Known for its expertly crafted cakes, Suisse Cakery has been a beloved spot for locals since it opened in 1987. Their cakes are perfectly balanced—not too sweet but just satisfying enough to hit the spot. If you’ve got a sweet tooth like me, this place is definitely worth a visit!
We then checked into Days Hotel by Wyndham Iloilo, conveniently located right across from the Capitol. The hotel is known for its spacious rooms, which offer a lot of room to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. What really stands out, though, is their buffet breakfast. Each day brings something new, with a wide variety of delicious dishes to choose from. Whether it’s local Ilonggo specialties or classic international favorites, there’s something for everyone, and the food offerings are more than enough to fuel your day.
For dinner, we headed to Ponsyon by Breakthrough at Plazuela de Iloilo. This local favorite is an extension of the original Breakthrough Restaurant, which has been serving Ilonggo cuisine since 1986. Ponsyon carries on this tradition, offering a menu filled with authentic Filipino dishes, with a special emphasis on fresh seafood. From classic batchoy to grilled managat (mangrove snapper) and sizzling crabmeat, the flavors here truly showcase why Iloilo is recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. The warm, welcoming vibe of the place made our meal even more enjoyable.
Why Iloilo Deserves a Spot on Your Bucket List
If you’re still searching for what to do in Iloilo, the answer is simple: eat, explore, and fall in love with the city’s timeless charm. From scenic heritage walks and UNESCO-recognized churches to comforting batchoy bowls and warm conversations with locals, every moment is an experience.
Wondering what is Iloilo known for? The city is recognized as a UNESCO City of Gastronomy, famous for its historical churches, batchoy, and deeply rooted cultural pride. If you’re compiling your travel plans, start with where to eat in Iloilo (trust us, you won’t run out of options), then explore its esplanades, heritage houses, and historic landmarks.
Planning your stay? From cozy inns to full-service hotels in Iloilo City, you’ll find accommodations that fit every traveler’s style and budget. The good news? Everything’s easily reachable from Iloilo International Airport, your gateway to one of the most underrated destinations in the Philippines.
So whether you’re asking “where is Iloilo located?” or “what to eat in Iloilo?”, there’s no better way to find out than seeing it for yourself.
A huge thanks to Sir Avel, Sir Jorry, and the Iloilo Bloggers Inc. for welcoming us with open arms. Your warmth and hospitality made everything even more special!
Need a driver? Contact Kuya Ryan Cyrie of 2RC Tours and Transport Services. He’s more than just a driver—he’s a storyteller, a walking history guide, and a part-time photographer. Seriously, he made our entire trip smoother and more memorable.
Getting to Iloilo has never been easier, too. Thanks to Cebu Pacific’s daily and direct flights from General Santos to Iloilo and vice versa, visiting the City of Love is now more convenient than ever. Whether you’re planning a quick weekend escape or a longer adventure, Iloilo is definitely worth the trip.
Stay tuned—I’ll be posting another blog soon with a full breakdown of every restaurant and attraction, plus our fun-filled adventures in Guimaras.
Iloilo, salamat gid! We’ll definitely be back.
The Gypsies List 