Batchoy — settle this debate once
La Paz batchoy is a noodle soup with pork innards, chicharon crumble, and raw egg mixed into a rich miki-based broth. Two camps: Ted's (the bigger chain, sweeter broth) and Netong's (the older La Paz Market original, saltier, more intense). Do both in a 24-hour span, decide for yourself, text us.
- Ted's Old-Timer La Paz Batchoy — multiple branches, ₱160 regular bowl
- Netong's at La Paz Public Market — cash only, older clientele, ₱150 bowl
- Deco's — the sleeper third option, ₱140, Smallville branch is walkable from most hotels
Day 1 — Old Iloilo walking route
- Jaro Cathedral — the only Catholic cathedral in the Philippines with a female patron saint, 1874.
- Jaro Belfry (across the street) — separate from the church; survived multiple earthquakes.
- Nelly Garden — 1928 ancestral mansion, tour by appointment via Calle Real contacts.
- Calle Real — Iloilo's restored heritage district. Coffee at Camiña Balay nga Bato.
- Dinner at Pat-Pat's Kansi — bulalo's Ilonggo cousin, sour soup with tamarind-like batuan fruit.
Day 2 — Guimaras day trip
Ferry from Ortiz Wharf to Jordan Wharf: ₱40, 15 minutes. Rent a tricycle on arrival for ₱1,500–₱2,000 for the full-day island loop.
- Trappist Monastery — Our Lady of the Philippines, working monastery, monks sell mango spreads
- Guisi Lighthouse (ruins) — 1896 Spanish-era lighthouse on a bluff
- Raymen Beach Resort — public beach, lunch here, ₱100 entrance
- Alubihod Beach — alternative swimming spot, quieter
- Oro Verde Mango Farm — ₱500 tour; picking season April–June
Day 3 — Molo and home
Molo Church (the "Feminist Church") — 1831 neogothic, saints lining the walls are all women. Panciteria de Molo for authentic pancit Molo at the source (₱120 bowl, they use their grandmother's recipe). Time the flight so you can also hit SM City or Ayala for pasalubong (Biscocho Haus piaya, butterscotch, barquillos) before heading to the airport.
Where to stay in Iloilo
- Courtyard by Marriott Iloilo — newest, near Iloilo River Esplanade, ₱5,500/night
- Seda Atria — reliable mid-range, business-class feel, ₱3,800/night
- The Dahilayan — boutique, walkable to Calle Real, ₱2,800/night
Frequently asked questions
Is Iloilo a food city?
Among the best in the Philippines — arguably only second to Pampanga. Batchoy, pancit Molo, KBL (kadyos-baboy-langka), chicken inasal, and Guimaras seafood all sit within a 30-minute radius.
Can I do Guimaras without an overnight?
Yes. Ferry is 15 minutes each way. Start at 7 a.m., finish by 5 p.m. Light beach time, all the mango stops. Longer stays (1–2 nights at Alubihod or Nueva Valencia) are worth it if you want proper island chill.
What's the best season to visit for mangoes?
April to June. March and July still have stock but not at peak sweetness or volume.
How far is Iloilo International Airport from downtown?
25 km, ~45 minutes by Grab or shuttle. ₱450–₱600 by Grab; ₱50 by public Ceres bus.
Is the Dinagyang Festival worth visiting for?
Yes — fourth weekend of January, religious festival with tribes performing on multiple stages. Book accommodation 3 months out; prices double during the festival week.
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