//
Highly-urbanized city in Western Visayas, Philippines
Photo: Bernardo Arellano III, CC BY 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Iloilo City is the provincial capital of Iloilo, on the island of Panay. The city is rich in history and culture, with well-preserved Spanish and American-era architecture, from churches to commercial buildings and the many ancestral houses scattered around the city. It’s also known for its distinct and flavorful cuisine, earning the recognition of being named a UNESCO City of Gastronomy.
From the travel guide. Select a place for details, a map and what is nearby.
National Shrine of Our Lady of Candles
One of the most significant religious sites in the Visayas. It houses the miraculous image of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria (Our Lady of the Candles), the only Marian image in the Philippines crowned by a pope and Vatican decree, Pope John Paul II in 1981. Across the street stands the iconic Jaro Belfry, which was originally a watchtower before being converted into a bell tower.
Campanario de Jaro
One of the few belfries in the country that stands apart from the church. It was constructed by the Spaniards to serve as a watchtower to monitor Muslim invasion from Mindanao. The colonial structure was ruined by an earthquake in 1948 and was restored decades later, in the mid-1990s.
St. Anne's Church
Built in 1831, this Gothic-Renaissance church stands as one of the most iconic landmarks of Iloilo. Known as the “feminist church” for its 16 statues of female saints, Molo Church features twin spires, a coral-stone façade, and a magnificent altar. It was visited by Jose Rizal on his way to exile in Dapitan, Mindanao.
Founded in 1607 by the Jesuits and later turned over to the Augustinians, it is considered the first church in Iloilo City. The church houses the replica of Santo Niño de Cebú, the patron saint of the Dinagyang Festival.
The city’s historic street, lined with late 19th and early 20th-century neoclassical and art deco buildings. The street has been famous since the Spanish era and once served as the city's main shopping center for more than a century. Eusebio Villanueva Building, a neoclassical building built in 1927, stands as one of the most iconic landmarks along Calle Real. Many other structures are also under heritage conservation.
Old Iloilo Provincial Capitol
The building, formerly the seat of the provincial government of Iloilo, has undergone numerous renovations and additions since it became the seat of the civil government in 1901. It was used as a military garrison by Japanese Imperial Forces during World War II. The building also hosted the Vin d'honneur (wine of honor) for the 117th Philippine Independence Day, led by President Benigno S. Aquino III—the first Vin d'honneur held outside Malacañang Palace.
Aduana de Iloílo
Built in 1916, it is a neoclassical structure designed by American architect Ralph Harrington Doane. It stands as the second largest and second oldest American-era customs house in the Philippines, following those in Manila and Cebu.
Yusay-Consing Ancestral House
A neoclassical-art deco heritage mansion built in 1926 by Doña Petra Lacson, a matron of the Lacson clan, and Estanislao Yulo Yusay, a prominent lawyer and judge from Molo. The property has been restored and is now owned by the SM Group, housing several cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops, including Kultura.
Lopez Mansion
Built in 1928 by the Lopez family, this Beaux-Arts mansion is one of Iloilo’s most elegant heritage houses. The property features sprawling gardens, neoclassical architecture, and preserved interiors showcasing the lifestyle of Iloilo’s early 20th-century elite. The mansion is not entirely open to the public and requires a tour or event reservation to enter, but visitors can still admire its grandeur from outside the gate.
Lizares–Gamboa Mansion
Built in 1937 by sugar baron Don Emiliano Lizares, this Beaux-Arts mansion features hardwood floors, elegant staircases, and classic architectural details. During World War II, it was occupied by the Japanese army. Today, it houses Angelicum School Iloilo and is occasionally open to visitors. The mansion is particularly popular during Christmas, when it is beautifully illuminated.
Don Fernando Avanceña Ancestral House
It was built in 1865 and was designed by the first parish priest of Molo, Anselmo Avanceña, for Don Fernando Avanceña and his wife, Eulalia Abaja. It is now operates as a living museum and restaurant, serving traditional Ilonggo cuisine including tsokolate tablea and local delicacies.
Javellana-Lopez Heritage House
The 200-year-old ancestral house of Doña Mariquit Lopez, the matriarch of the Lopez clan of ABS CBN. It also serves as a museum of the late Vice President Fernando Lopez, the husband of Doña Mariquit and the patriarch of the Lopez clan. Considered the oldest surviving house in Iloilo City, it is preserved as a museum showcasing furniture, photographs, and artifacts from the Spanish colonial period.
University of the Philippines Visayas Main Building
Formerly the seat of the city government of Iloilo, the building now serves as the main building of the Iloilo City campus of the University of the Philippines (UP) Visayas.
Built in 1971, this provincial museum was the first government-sponsored museum in the Philippines outside Metro Manila. It houses a collection of artifacts, historical items, and exhibits on local culture, as well as temporary art and cultural displays. It’s an excellent place to explore Iloilo’s history, traditions, and artistic heritage.
Old Iloilo Provincial Jail
Housed in the former provincial jail, built in 1911, the museum features five galleries on its lower floor and an open gallery on the second floor, showcasing artifacts from across the Western Visayas region.
The national museum narrates the evolution of the Philippine economy, highlighting major industries, historical developments, and Iloilo City’s role as the second-most important city in the Philippines during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
The national museum highlights the Philippines’ maritime heritage, featuring shipbuilding, trade, port activities, and Iloilo’s role as a major trading hub.
ILOMOCA
A three-floor art museum full of avant-garde artistic atmosphere. Compared with ordinary artworks, the works here incorporate the contemporary artists' ideas to express to the public. It has five exhibit halls and highlighting works from 42 different artists.
It is the first and only museum in the Philippines dedicated to brandy.
Senator Efrain Treñas Boulevard
A -long well-landscaped linear park along the banks of the Iloilo River. It is considered the longest linear park in the Philippines
Plaza Alfonso XII
Also known as Plaza Alfonso XII, this central park in Iloilo City Proper is a National Historical Institute site for its role in the Philippine liberation. Surrounding the plaza are key landmarks, including the City Government Center, San Jose de Placer Church, heritage buildings like the Masonic Temple and Lacson Ancestral House, the Botica Lacson ruins, Iloilo Plaza Hotel (now LandBank), and nearby historic sites such as the Ker & Company Heritage Building and Ynchausti Mansion.
Jaro Plaza
One of the largest district plazas in the city, it is part of the Jaro Cultural Heritage Tourism Zone, alongside Jaro Cathedral, Jaro Belfry, and surrounding heritage ancestral houses. The plaza features several monuments and memorials, including a new shrine of Patrocinio Gamboa, the World War II Memorial Monument, and the Graciano Lopez Jaena Monument.
One of the six district plazas in the city, it features statues of Greek goddesses and a monument of Maria Clara. Like Jaro Plaza, it is surrounded by Molo Church and heritage ancestral houses such as Molo Mansion.
The first and largest waterpark in Western Visayas, it offers a fun and refreshing getaway for families and friends. It features thrilling water slides, wave pools, and play areas for kids, making it an ideal destination for all ages.
A family-friendly waterpark with pools designed for both kids and adults. Guests are welcome to bring their own food and drinks, making it perfect for picnics and casual weekend outings.
The first indoor climbing gym in Iloilo City, it offers a challenging yet beginner-friendly space for those who want to experience the thrill of wall climbing. It’s a great place to train, exercise, and meet fellow climbing enthusiasts.
A relaxing spot to practice your golf swing, this driving range caters to both beginners and seasoned players looking to sharpen their skills in a laid-back environment.
Known as the oldest golf course in the Philippines, this beautifully maintained 18-hole course offers scenic greens and a peaceful atmosphere. Although located outside Iloilo City, it’s easily accessible via jeepneys, taxis, and private vehicles, making it a convenient escape for golf enthusiasts.
It offers an exciting wakeboarding experience for both beginners and pros. It’s situated just outside Iloilo City but remains easily accessible by public and private transport. The park also provides training sessions and a relaxing area for spectators.
A riverside leisure spot where visitors can dine, relax, and enjoy scenic cruises along the Iloilo River. Private boat rentals and chartered trips are available, including leisure cruising and selected trips toward the Iloilo Strait and Guimaras.
Offers a more modern take on traditional Ilonggo seafood dishes, including sizzling prawns and crab platters.
Casual dining spot popular for grilled fish, squid, crabs, and steaks.
Known for fresh oysters and a variety of oyster dishes with Japanese-inspired sauces.
Local favorite serving affordable seafood platters alongside modernized Ilonggo dishes.
Specializes in grilled talaba and other shellfish, cooked to order—steamed, baked, in hot chili, crispy fried, or sizzling.
Family-friendly spot serving classic Filipino seafood dishes.
Serves traditional Ilonggo-style seafood and features a temperature-controlled live seafood aquarium—the only one of its kind.
Known for its grilled crabs, shrimp, and native-style seafood cooking.
Serves authentic Ilonggo seafood favorites in a casual, local setting.
Combines fresh seafood with a lively, modern dining atmosphere, perfect for groups and nightlife vibes, with access to the Iloilo River Esplanade.
All-day dining restaurant offers a blend of Ilonggo and international cuisines in a modern setting.
A garden-themed restaurant serving authentic Mediterranean dishes, including Greek, Italian, and Moroccan cuisines.
Known for its selection of steaks, pastas, and deli items, this restaurant offers a contemporary dining experience with a view of the Iloilo River.
An authentic Vietnamese restaurant featuring traditional dishes in a setting adorned with Vietnamese-made furniture and lacquerware.
A local favorite offering juicy chicken inasal and other Filipino dishes like sisig and sinigang na pompano.
Famous for its crispy lechon manok and a variety of Filipino comfort foods.
A garden-themed restaurant offering a serene dining experience with a menu featuring Filipino and international dishes.
Offers a range of baked goods and comfort food, perfect for casual and modern dining.
A popular spot for families and gatherings, this restaurant serves authentic German flavors, including dishes like sausages and schnitzels.
Known for its version of the Ilonggo dish kansi, a sour beef soup, in a casual setting inside an ancestral house.
A vibrant place for karaoke, billiards, dancing, drinks, and food, catering to both small groups and families.
Known for its lively atmosphere, neon lights, and a wide selection of drinks.
A premier nightlife destination offering live music performances and a dynamic clubbing experience.
A stylish bar and restaurant offering American-Filipino fusion dishes, craft cocktails, and a cozy ambiance. Their Festive Walk branch is particularly appealing, featuring a balcony dining area with views of the bustling street.
A chic lounge with stylish interiors, curated cocktails, and a lively atmosphere. It's a go-to spot for those seeking a sophisticated night out.
A dynamic resto-bar known for its vibrant ambiance, affordable cocktails, and a nostalgic playlist featuring '80s and '90s hits.
A historic café known for its traditional brewed coffee, since 1940.
3rd Gen Glory's Café
A traditional brewed coffee since 1948, now run by its third generation.
A contemporary café known for its specialty coffee, minimalist design, and a selection of baked goods.
A hip café with a jungle-themed interior, serving specialty coffee and light bites in a relaxed setting.
A new B&B-style lodging with carefully selected furniture, fixtures, and fittings. The rooms are spacious and well-furnished, very clean, and share a shower/WC with hot water. Free Wi-Fi is available, though intermittent.
Small a/c single/double rooms with own bathrooms and cable TV.
A budget-friendly hotel with fan rooms and private bathrooms.
A centrally located 5-story walk-up offering fan or AC rooms with private bathrooms, cable TV, free Wi-Fi, and complimentary hot drinking water. Some budget rooms may be windowless.
Located on Calle Real, the hotel offers fan or AC single and double rooms, all with private bathrooms and cable TV.
A/C single and double rooms with private bathrooms and cable TV. Wi-Fi available in the lobby.
Fan-equipped rooms with private bathrooms.
A/C single and double rooms with private bathrooms.
A/C double room with private bathroom and cable TV.
Offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and free Wi-Fi.
Offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, bidets, walk-in showers, and tiled floors. The hotel is conveniently located near the Atria Park District.
A resort-style hotel offering spacious rooms, an outdoor pool with a children's area, and two on-site restaurants and bars.
Situated in the vibrant Smallville Complex, it provides modern rooms with free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, bar/lounge, and a coffee shop.
A budget-friendly hotel offering clean and comfortable accommodations, with amenities such as a 24-hour front desk, karaoke, and massage services.
It offers family rooms with modern amenities, free Wi-Fi, a swimming pool, fitness center, and massage services.
It offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant serving local cuisine, free Wi-Fi in public areas, and self-parking.
A budget hotel located in the city proper, offering comfortable accommodations with easy access to local attractions.
It features inviting rooms, free Wi-Fi, a spa and wellness center, and a spacious fitness center.
The tallest hotel in Western Visayas, offering 194 rooms, a rooftop restaurant, and wellness facilities.
A boutique hotel known for its personalized service and charming interiors, offering a quiet atmosphere for guests.
Offers comfortable accommodations with easy access to transportation hubs and local attractions in Jaro district.
A modern complex offering serviced suites with kitchenettes, ideal for long-term stays or travelers seeking a home-like environment
A budget hotel offering clean and comfortable rooms with essential amenities, located in the Mandurriao district for easy access to commercial areas.
A contemporary hotel offering modern rooms, several restaurants, and event facilities, situated along the busy highway.
A family-friendly hotel providing comfortable accommodations with amenities suitable for both short and long stays.
A luxury hotel offering elegant rooms, a spa, fitness center, and multiple dining options, situated in the downtown area for convenient access to attractions.
Modern accommodations with air-conditioning, cable TV, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy dining at Café Del Prado and relax by the outdoor pool. The hotel is located along the Iloilo River.
Offers well-appointed rooms with modern amenities. Guests can enjoy a rooftop terrace, fitness center, and free parking. Conveniently located near Iloilo International Airport, just outside the city.
Offers family rooms with air-conditioning, private bathrooms, and city views.
Offering family rooms with private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and free Wi-Fi.
It offers contemporary rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, a rooftop pool, fitness center, and international dining options at Runway Kitchen. Ideal for both business and leisure travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
It provides upscale accommodations with modern amenities, including an outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site dining options. Guests can enjoy easy access to shopping, dining, and entertainment venues.
Amenities include a spa, fitness center, outdoor pool, and dining options serving local and international cuisine. Its proximity to business centers and entertainment venues makes it ideal for both business and leisure travelers.
It offers amenities such as a restaurant, fitness center, and meeting facilities. Its central location provides easy access to shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, within the Atria Park District.
It offers spacious accommodations with kitchenettes, ideal for long-term stays. Facilities include a rooftop pool, fitness center, and restaurant.
A stylish hotel offering modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and a restaurant with panoramic city views.
It offers air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms, balconies, and free Wi-Fi. Guests can enjoy dining at one of the three on-site restaurants or unwind at the bar/lounge. The hotel features two outdoor pools for relaxation.
Located along the stretch of the Festive Walk Parade. It has its own pool and lounge, fitness center with sauna, function room and an all-day dining restaurant.
The largest shopping mall in Iloilo City under the SM Supermalls chain, featuring a wide range of local and international retail stores, a department store, supermarket, cinemas, food courts, and numerous dining options. It serves as a major lifestyle and entertainment hub, conveniently located near the Iloilo Business Park and transport terminals.
A modern lifestyle mall within the Iloilo Business Park, known for its open-air Festive Walk Parade, high-end shops, cafés, and nightlife spots, managed by Megaworld Lifestyle Malls.
A major shopping mall in the downtown area, offering a department store, supermarket, cinemas, and a wide selection of shops and restaurants, managed by Robinsons Malls.
A smaller, centrally located SM mall in the downtown area, popular for quick shopping, groceries, and easy access to the city’s historic core.
A shopping center in the downtown area known for small retail stalls and affordable local boutiques, frequented by locals.
Gaisano La Paz
A shopping mall offering budget-friendly shopping, groceries, and basic dining options, part of the Gaisano Capital Group.
A shopping mall in Jaro with retail stores, a supermarket, a department store, cinemas, and dining options, managed by Robinsons Malls.
An outdoor, open-air mall known for its trendy restaurants and cafés, under Ayala Malls.
By ferry
Several passenger and fast ferry routes connect Iloilo from nearby islands such as Guimaras, Negros, Cebu, Palawan, and even as far as Manila and Mindanao.
By bus or van
Iloilo City serves with frequent bus and van services connecting it to and from destinations across Panay Island and even as far as Manila and Batangas via roll-on/roll-off (RoRo) ferries.
By taxi
The best way to get around town, taxis are available from the bus stations and malls, and you can also hail them from the street.
By tricycle or trisikad
Tricycles are motorbikes with a sidecar, while pedicabs, locally known as trisikad, are their human-powered counterparts that use a pedal bike.
By rented vehicle
Car and motorcycle rentals are widely available within the city and through online platforms for added convenience.
Choose an airport to see hotels, stations, taxi ranks and car rental desks around it.
Cabatuan · International · ILO
Loading places around the airport…
Articles and travel topics about Iloilo City and Philippines.
Travel tipsFull 2026 list of visa-free countries for Philippine passport holders. Check ASEAN entry rules, stay limits, and Bureau of Immigration clearance tips.
6 min read
InspirationThe ultimate first-time Philippines island guide covering El Nido lagoons in Palawan, White Beach in Boracay, Bohol Chocolate Hills, and Cebu waterfalls.
6 min read
ItinerariesAn honest comparison of Palawan and Boracay covering beach sand quality, island hopping tours, nightlife, travel logistics, and real costs.
6 min read
Travel tipsReal-world 7-day Philippines travel budget covering hotel prices, domestic flights, island hopping tours, tricycle fares, and food costs.
7 min read
Every section of the guide. Open one to read it in full.