This itinerary is definitely budget friendly and provides different places for each person to see. Of course, the budget can change if somethings are removed or if you are sharing the cost with someone.
Easy to shuffle things around if something doesn't work out while you are there, or if a tour gets postponed during unpredictable weather.
Car rental is also included in the cost for Iloilo. For Bacolod, it is very easy to navigate. You may download the Grab App as the main booking application in the Philippines. There are also tricycles that can be rented out, taxis and jeepneys can be found everywhere.
The cost of each event is based on the travel done in April of 2023. Some rules and costs may have changed.
Day 1 - Arrival in Bacolod
From the first flight in from Bacolod and a quick historical day tour around Silay.
Taking the first flight out of Metro Manila to Bacolod will bring you in Silay, where a lot of historical houses are.
Come and see how the homes of Filipinos were during the Spanish occupation. With everything intact and preserved utensils used to get ready in daily life, a great way to step back in time.
Tips: be prepared with having a water proof bag as the waves can be a bit stronger when going back to the port from the island. Also, don't fret as there's a shower room available at the port.
Lunch can be eaten on the island before returning back to the city, and once back and to close the day, head over to Chicken House for the best inasal. Best to order their chicken inasal - either paa or pecho - and their pusit.
The cathedral that stood the test of time. Don't forget to make a wish as you enter.
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Built such a long time ago, this is situated near a park, the city hall and a school. The plaza - also a park - is right in front where people meet, students talk and some would even do their exercise here.
Its an easy walk around the city with everything near together. Don't fret - there are also taxis, jeeps and tricycles that you can easily hail to go on to the next stop.
Near The Negros Museum sits Bacolod's center. With a huge park and wonderful lagoon, this is where many put in their exercise. There are wonderful seasonal lights display, make sure to drop by!
Purchase your tickets early -- even for trips days away!
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Just a quick purchase of the tickets for the next day. The booths open a bit late and since Iloilo and Bacolod are close together - tickets tend to sell out. Doing this quick stop secures our seats for the trip.
For this itinerary, it was the first trip out from Bacolod to Iloilo - which departs at 6to make sure that there's enough time for Iloilo.
Tip: prepare cash for this purchase. At the time of this trip, there were to credit card or online payment options. It was all cash basis.
Walls filled with murals, small cinema supporting local film, galleries for up and coming artists. Right in the entrance you'll be transported.
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If you love art or looking for budding artists or just like to discover things, then Art District is a must stop.
Filled with galleries housing different kinds of art - traditional painting, photography or sculptures - there is always something for everyone.
Scattered around the area are street art and sculptures by different artist. Don't forget to look up - or down - as there is always some small art always hidden here.
While inasal is a must try, seafood is also a star! Have your own choice of the freshest catch cooked grilled or buttered.
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With the last night in Bacolod, nothing beats grilled fresh seafood. Definitely pick out your favorites from all the seafood available and definitely don't miss ordering rice.
El Haciendero Private Hotel is conveniently situated near Robinsons Jaro. Since its near the main road, it is near public transportation and going around was never a problem.
The hotel is a walking distance to a bike rental - another mode of transport in Iloilo. With the safe bike lane and easy navigation, definitely a consideration to go around.
Sharing different pieces of what the art scene of Iloilo has to offer, Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art is a multilevel gallery that you can get lost in.
New place along the highway known for their bread and delectable cakes. Great way to cool down, grab a cup of coffee and some bread on the go. Cakes are also a must have! Some even take home to their loved ones.
With well curated pieces sharing the history of Iloilo, what its known for, how the past influences the present and showing the path of the future. Another must go even if its filled with students. It is Iloilo's pride in one building.
This is a place known for sharing. Popular for their siopao, this place offers Filipino food like no other. Come in early before the lunch rush as the seats get taken and always expect a line.
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Don't forget to update the rental place for any delays - definitely worth renting and going around.
Also, check out Digz Batchoy for the amazing molo and batchoy they have to offer.
An hours drive from the city is a sanctuary that's taken cared of by the closest university, UP Visayas. Bringing corals back to life and attracting marine life, definitely a diamond in the rough.
Once in ruins, now restored. It houses a famous shop called Kultura which sells different souvenirs famous around the Philippines. Check out the coffee shop right outside which prides itself from beans from Mt. Apo.
One of the oldest paluto restaurants that grew as a family staple for reunions, get togethers or any celebration. Check their fresh catch but always get their baked oysters!
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For all the coffee lovers out there, worth taking a stop at La Rosteria - they specialize roasting beans from Mt. Apo.
Famous for sourcing and roasting beans from the Philippines, this is a must stop for any coffee lover. You get to witness the roasting process if you are lucky!
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Day 6: Free Day
Always a lot a free day in your itinerary here. Due to the weather, we had to reshuffle our schedule. Luckily, we had one day off where, really, nothing was planned. It was the day for chilling, relaxing and souvenir shopping.
This is where locals come, gather and get their hot cup of coffee no matter how hot the weather is. Right in the middle of La Paz market, their coffee is always best paired with their freshly made bread and suman latik.
Hidden off to the side of the mangroves, this place is known for their steamed oysters by the bucket. Also check their fresh catch which is always different every lunch and dinner time.
When you say Iloilo, Butterscotch is the first thing that comes to mind! Quick to sell out butterscotch from Rgies, best to go to their one and only branch to get the best deals. You may even request this to be boxed for easy transport.
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Also take a step back and see what else can be seen - and definitely eaten - near you. There are spots that can't be easily put on the map or are just available on the weekends near churches.
Day 7: Gigantes Island Tour
Definitely worth doing a tour on this and you can't really DIY this one. Best to book in advance, especially during peak season since they get fully booked fast.
Born and raised in bustling Quezon City, Philippines, I learned to travel with a tight budget and time. As I open up my passport to other Asian countries, I am more than willing to share what I have to help other travelers out there with the same goal: see as much at a cheap cost in a quick time.
