Iloilo City is one of the most laid-back cities in the Philippines and for good measure. In the thriving metropolis dubbed as the "City of Love", one gets culture, gastronomy, green spaces and a vibrant yet relaxed urban vibe. If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and want a quick weekend getaway to the south, check out my 48 hour mini travel guide written from the perspective of a local. Feel free to mix and match your 48 hour itinerary in the City of Love!
DAY 1: Heritage Itinerary
1. Enjoy an early morning stroll at the Iloilo River Esplanade. Enjoy the beauty of the city's mangrove lined river esplanades amidst the sound of wildlife and lush, tropical greenery. Stop for a cup of coffee and hearty breakfast at Drip Cafe Coffee and Community along Diversion Road, just a few steps away from Iloilo River Esplanade. For unforgettable breakfast, head over to Cafe Augusto at Avancena St., Molo for a delectable Ilonggo pamahaw or hearty full English breakfast. The cafe is right beside Panaderia de Molo, the iconic pasalubong destination for heritage Ilonggo biscuits and pastries.
2. Visit two of Iloilo's iconic churches: National Shrine of Our Lady of Candles (Jaro Cathedral) and St. Anne's Church (considered a feminist church due to images of female saints inside). Enjoy a relaxing moment at the picturesque Graciano Lopez Jaena Plaza just across the Jaro Cathedral and escape for a quick lunch and museum tour at Agatona 1927 Museum Cafe. Just across St. Anne's Church in Molo, enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the classically designed Molo Plaza. Pay homage to your inner Greek goddess (hello Demeter!) at the plaza gazebo. Grab a snack or souvenir from Molo Mansion's food and crafts market just across the plaza.
3. Spend a few artful hours at Iloilo Museum of Contemporary Art (ILOMOCA) and adjacent Brandy Museum at Festive Walk Parade in Megaworld Business Park. Stroll under colorful Korean lanterns at K-town and enjoy outdoor dining at its best. Explore unique, Ilonggo artisan crafts and finds at Festive Mall. If you have additional time, visit Thrive Art Gallery at The Shops at Atria to see a thematic showcase of Ilonggo art collective. Don't forget to grab some yummy croissants from Born in Bread or coffee to go from Neighbor Coffee. Neighbor Cafe's Lavender Matcha and Apple Lavender Americano are must-tries!
4. Take a ride to Iloilo City's historic shopping corridor, Calle Real for a glimpse of heritage buildings and offbeat finds from vintage shops. Visit the National Museum of Natural History or Museum of Philippine Economic History near Plaza Libertad to learn about Panay's rich trade and maritime history. Watch the world go by at Plaza Libertad or hear mass at San Jose Placer Church just right across the plaza. Just a few steps away is the historic Fort San Pedro, a great location to get invigorating, fresh air and view of nearby Guimaras islands. Hungry again? Check out the highly recommended Beige Eatery for yummy homegrown Ilonggo dishes! Namit guid!
5. if you'd rather want a guided tour, you can check our the Iloilo themed travel experiences on Klook. I highly recommend the Iloilo City Heritage Tour if DIY travel exploration on super limited time is not your thing.
DAY 2: Countryside Escape
1. Travel south to visit Miag-ao Church, a UNESCO heritage site and enjoy the breezy, seaside views along the way. Stop by for cake and tea at Mrs. Wharton's London Bakes and British Teas inside Casa Riviera in San Antonio, Oton. You can also opt for a grand gastronomic lunch at Tatoy's Manokan and Seafoods in Sto. Nino Sur, Arevalo. Breakthrough Restaurant offers amazing Ilonggo cuisine and seafood dishes as well. Iloilo City is a Creative City for Gastronomy and the city will charm its way to your tummy!
2. Jump on a ferry boat and hie away to nearby Guimaras Island to explore the beach hideaway of your choice. Check out this Guimaras beach itinerary for detailed travel tips. If you're not a beach person, you can always explore other attractions that the island has to offer such as San Lorenzo Wind Farm, Trappist monastery cafe and gift shop, and Casitas de Palma among others.
Enjoy the fun and flavors Iloilo City has to offer. Kit-anay kita!
Posts
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https://www.cristyinthecity.net/2025/05/travel-guide-48-hours-in-iloilo-city.html&media=https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2YGAEkGKjnKVHbWlFW5zBoLFSWzqLRUjt3BXjxn6Bh0fNl9r3fBR8PoBpiyQS4zDi9gTAEWE4nTjuWOuf4jhYExjtZMT1yOSLE6rXowz-3st-2pEt3iE3s98W44fNfmLIWmPk3MgLsQyWy1D3mhWEzVQYuQ0Kj791BChXwV7gjqJBq51YFUTMZjIBaQ0/s72-c/IMG_1788.jpeg&description=Iloilo City is one of the most laid-back cities in the Philippines and for good measure. In the thriving metropolis dubbed as the "City...){kind=link}
Thank you for putting together an itinerary where there's something for everyone in the family. The photos are postcard worthy and show Iloilo's beauty. Truly, I don't think I can appreciate it all in just two days, especially if a trip to the beach is included!
ReplyDelete