25 Best Things To Do in Bacolod And Bacolod Tourist Spots

There are many things to do in Bacolod City and we will show you in our Bacolod City travel guide all the Bacolod tourist spots. Bacolod may not be the most popular destination in the Philippines, it still ranks one of the most visited cities in the country. !

We believe it is mainly because of the kind and very welcoming people. Can it also be because of the city’s rich history and culture? Well, it may also be the savory home-cooked meals (not to mention the most delicious chicken inasal that originated in Bacolod).

Whatever the reason may be, Bacolod tourist spots are definitely worth exploring. We will tell you what´s the best time to visit Bacolod City, hotels in Bacolod City to stay and what to eat in Bacolod City.

Of course, Bacolod isn’t perfect. I mean, sure, it may not have the most breathtaking sights and the most beautiful landscapes ever. But you will surely keep coming back for more once you visit the place. The “why” is for you to find out.

Here in this article, you’ll learn all about how you can travel to Bacolod City. We will also give you our insights on why we think you should really visit this city at least once in your life.

Read here Bacolod itinerary, how to get to Bacolod City and where to stay in Bacolod City!

SIM CARD AT MANILA AIRPORT

I wouldn’t recommend you to buy a sim card at Manila airport. If you wish comfort you can buy eSim online and if you aren’t in a hurry just go around phone shops in the city and compare prices to buy the cheapest sim card in Manila. Read here Philippines sim card for tourist and best Philippines eSim

WHERE TO STAY IN THE PHILIPPINES

You can get accommodation starting from 800-1000 PHP (less than $20 USD) for a room in a guesthouse. Can you imagen if you are two of you traveling in the Philippines, it will be $10 USD each.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION WITH BOOKING AND AGODA!

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

You can read Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance. You can get for $135 USD your Heymondo Travel Insurance with Heymondo discount code valid for 90 days. Read our full Heymondo Travel Insurance Review

You can get Safetywing Travel Insurance for Digital Nomads valid for 28 days Safetywing for $50 USD per month with kids until 10 years old included

BACOLOD CITY TRAVEL GUIDE

HOW TO GET TO BACOLOD CITY

GETTING TO BACOLOD CITY FROM THE AIRPORT

If you are getting to Bacolod City from the airport. You should know that the airport is located in Silay City, 15 kilometers far from Bacolod City. If you are riding a van will cost you 150 PHP per person and it will drive you to SM which is in the city center of Bacolod.

There are also available Grab and taxis. Grab could be your best option if you are traveling with more people. Grab prices are around 350-500 PHP. Taxis are available for 450 PHP. Just choose the option which adapts better to your comfort and budget.

Read here how to get from Cebu to Bacolod!

GETTING TO BACOLOD CITY BY FASTCRAFT FERRY FROM ILOILO

If you’re getting to Bacolod City from Iloilo. You can take a fastcraft ferry with regular schedules to and from both islands. The fees vary but the cheapest one you can get as a tourist is around $4.50 USD only. to $6 USD depending on the ferry company that you choose for your trip.

One of the many great things about traveling to Bacolod is how everything is really cheap and affordable! From the food and fares, this city’s affordability will keep your budget intact and will allow you to enjoy different things to do in Bacolod!

GETTING TO BACOLOD CITY FROM GUIMARAS ISLAND

If you are getting to Bacolod City from Guimaras Island. You have to ride a jeepney to Libertad Market from Central Market, the ride is 8.50 PHP per person. From Libertad Market you have to walk to SaveMore where jeepneys leave to Pulupandan. The journey takes almost an hour and it costs 30 PHP to the ferry port.

The ferry going to Sibunag in Guimaras leaves early morning before 8 am. The ferry going to San Lorenzo leaves at 11 am, so take note of the schedule since there is only one boat leaving daily. The boat takes an hour and it costs 100 PHP for an adult and 50 PHP for a 6 years old if you are traveling with a kid and we were doing going from Bacolod to Guimaras Island.

We had hard time riding this boat and the water was coming inside since it’s so windy getting to San Lorenzo in Guimaras Island. Maybe it’s better if you choose the other route coming from Iloilo City.

Just expect a hard ride if you ride the boat. It’s limited to 55 people but they also add motorbikes, sacks and we think is overloaded based in what we saw apart of getting dizzy during the ride.

TRANSPORTATION AROUND BACOLOD CITY

Since Bacolod is a highly urbanized city, you can easily go from one place to another through jeepneys, taxis, Grab taxi, tricycles, motorcycles and shuttle cars/buses. However, for first timers, riding a jeepney could get a little confusing because you would have to be familiar with the routes if you are to ride one.

But it sure sounds like an adventure, right? After all, the good thing about getting lost is meeting the friendliest people. The Hiligaynons of Bacolod will never hesitate to give you directions and talk to you if you need any help!

DAILY BUDGET TO VISIT BACOLOD

Those visiting Bacolod City are in for a treat. Many of the food and hotels in the city are inexpensive but more than satisfying. A full meal in the city can go for as low as 80 PHP per person while a bottle of beer can be bought for around 50-65 PHP. Restaurant food can be bought for around 500-800 PHP for two people. Pretty cheap, right? And if you only have 20 PHP in your pocket and you’re feeling pretty hungry, you can even buy plenty of street food with your cash.

Those who are looking for budget hotels in Bacolod and can find one on a promo for around 500-900 PHP. Three-star establishments go for around 1,000-2,000 PHP. That’s only $19-38 USD! For those who want a more luxurious stay, you can check in at very nice hotels at around $50-120 USD.

You can also book your accommodations through Agoda or Booking.

BACOLOD TOURIST SPOTS AND THINGS TO DO IN BACOLOD

From resorts to churches to old buildings, Bacolod City and its neighboring communities have so much to offer visitors. Negros Occidental has become the ideal blend of old and new, and Bacolod lies in the heart of it all.

Those who haven’t seen and experienced the wonders Bacolod tourist spots. Talisay and Silay will surely enjoy discovering these iconic places. Keep reading below all the things to do in Bacolod.

BACOLOD CITY TOURIST SPOTS AND THINGS TO DO IN BACOLOD CITY

1. SEE SAN SEBASTIAN CATHEDRAL

Located in downtown Bacolod City, San Sebastian is a famous church all over the country. Many Filipinos visit this church to attend mass there at least once in their lives. You can’t miss it in the list of Bacolod tourist spots.

What makes the cathedral so special, you ask? Its stone structure was officially built in 1876 and was made with coral stones from Guimaras and hardwood from Palawan. After almost a century, it has been renovated several times and has transformed to the architectural beauty it is today. The interiors can fill you with solemnity and awe at the same time.

2. PROVINCIAL CAPITOL GROUNDS

Provincial Capitol Grounds is a perfect place to feel the vibe of Bacolod. You will see first thing in the morning and late evening people jogging and walking around. It’s clean and beautiful!

3. BACOLOD PUBLIC PLAZA

Bacolod Public Plaza is in front of San Sebastian Cathedral in Bacolod City center. It’s a great place to chill and walk around during the day. You will see many people and there are street food sellers around the area. One of the best things to in Bacolod to feel the vibe of the city.

4. BACOLOD BAYWALK

Bacolod Baywalk is just a few minutes walking distance from San Sebastian Cathedral and Bacolod Plaza. The best time to visit Bacolod Baywalk is for the sunset. It’s great to walk around at night where you can find place to have dinner. One of the locals favorite Bacolod tourist spots.

5. POPE JOHN PAUL II TOWER

Pope John Paul II Tower was inaugurated on 18th of February 18, 2010. It’s located in Bacolod City center. There are 7th floors and you can visit and you will find souvenirs and religious items. From the top you will get the view of Bacolod Baywalk. Pope John Paul II Tower entrance fee is 20 PHP.

6. NEGROS SHOWROOM

Negros Showroom is located just a few minutes walking distance from Bacolod Plaza in City Center. You will have the opportunity to buy pasalubong and souvenirs. You can find many things related to Bacolod and also food.

ADVENTURE AND RESORTS BACOLOD TOURIST SPOTS

7. HAVE AN ADVENTURE AT MAMBUKAL RESORT IN MURCIA

Located 1,200 meters above sea level, this mountain resort is a unique getaway that travelers from all over the world will surely enjoy. From trekking the 7 waterfalls to riding a zip line to wall climbing, Mambukal Resort has so many activities to offer! One of the adventure Bacolod tourist spots.

Apart from that, the food here is delicious and perfectly matches the cool, breezy atmosphere of the entire place. For those who just want to relax, they have a warm sulfur dipping pool, a boat lagoon, a butterfly garden, hot springs and the Mambukal River.

There is an entrance fee of  $1 USD for adults and there are plenty of accommodations to choose from. You can also avail packages to make the most of your trip that cost from $14-28 USD. Murcia is only an hour away from Bacolod.

8. EXPLORE CAMPUESTOHAN HIGHLAND RESORT

A truly exciting resort to visit, Campuestohan Highland Resort is a sight to behold. Not only does it offer lots of fun-filled activities, the resort itself is beautifully structured.  There are tepee-shaped and igloo-shaped camp houses, a mini train, pools for adults and children, a wave pool, huge playgrounds and a hanging bridge.

Other delightful installation include the Heroes Hall where you can find statues of different characters like The Hulk, Wonder Woman, Thor, and even Elvis Presley. They also have a massive King Kong statue that actually roars so loud, it can be heard all around the resort.

Campuestohan rests 800 meters above sea level and the weather there is comparable to the country’s coldest spots like Tagaytay and Baguio. There are many activities that you can try to keep yourself warm and occupied. There’s the hamster wheel, sky bicycle riding, a zip line, horse back riding, bungee trampoline, and many more! There’s also a spa and a restaurant pavilion for those who just want to chill and relax.

The resort has a $12 USD entrance fee and is open from 7 AM to 6 PM for those not staying in the resort’s cabins. Each activity also requires a small fee but the entrance fee already comes with access to the resort grounds, swimming pool, hanging bridge and playgrounds.

Click here to get a discount booking your entrance fee at Campuestohan Highland Resort with Klook!

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN BACOLOD BEFORE YOUR TRIP WITH BOOKING AND AGODA!

TILASAY/SILAY TOURIST SPOTS

9. MARVEL AT THE RUINS IN TALISAY CITY

The Ruins is an iconic destination in the region and the entire country as well. Recently, more people have come to visit this historic place because of its beauty. It’s truly an Instagram-worthy spot! Historically speaking, this Italianate mansion was created for Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson.

It was his way of commemorating his Portuguese wife after she passed away from giving birth to their 11th child. Crazy, right? The Ruins sits on a 440-hectare sugar plantation owned by the aforementioned baron. It was eventually burnt down to prevent Japanese forces from using it as their headquarters during the Second World War. What stands today is what’s left of the building, which still looks beautiful and majestic despite it being “ruined.”

Now, it can be visited daily from 8 AM to 8 PM for an entrance fee of less than 2 USD per person. You can also hold special events in its gardens.

Click here to get a discount booking a Silay Heritage tour with Klook!

MORE BACOLOD TOURIST SPOTS AND THINGS TO DO IN BACOLOD

10. GO AROUND SILAY CITY

You can find Silay City in the North of Bacolod. Silay, so much as Bacolod, has a beautiful history and a rich culture. The city is filled with ancestral homes and mansions, old building and historical sites which makes it quite popular among tourists visiting Negros. The city’s vintage look reels in visitors who enjoy architecture and are interested in taking lots of beautiful photos.

There are many wonderful places to visit in Silay. The following spots are some of the closest ones to the city’s public plaza and can be easily explored by yourself or on a tour.

11. BALAY NEGRENSE 

Previously the mansion of sugar baron Victor Fernandez Gaston, this 19th-century building has been turned into a museum. It now houses beautiful pieces of furniture and has officially been declared a heritage house by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines in 1994.

Locals and tourists love visiting this mansion because of its creepy vibe and the wonderful story behind it. It is also the first museum in Negros Occidental.

12. ENJOYING THE VIEW AT DUYAN CAFE

Enjoying Lantawan View for breakfast at Duyan Cafe in Silay.  Duyan Cafe is 30 minutes driving far from Bacolod. And very close to Silay. The views are so beautiful and it’s peaceful place to enjoy a coffee.

13. VISIT EL IDEAL BAKERY

Another oldie but goldie in Negros is El Ideal Bakery. It is the oldest bakeshop and restaurant in the entire province, and is located in the Cesar Lacson Locsin Ancestral House, another heritage site.

Here, you can enjoy all kinds of meals served with bread or rice. Pastries and delicacies abound for tourists to enjoy; there’s piaya, angel cookies and all sorts of pies. You will definitely want to eat your heart out in this local favorite.

14. BERNARDINO JALANDONI MUSEUM

Famously known as the “Pink House,” this ancestral home has been a National Historical Landmark since 1993. It’s unique color and architecture attracts many visitors, all of whom give nothing but praise to the museum.

Completed in 1908, the house is a beautiful combination of Silaynon architecture and European furnishing. Bernardino Jalandoni Museum showcases the richness of Philippine history and how great its foreign influences were as well.

15. SAN DIEGO PRO-CATHEDRAL

Easily distinguishable from all other churches in the province, San Diego Pro-Cathedral is the only church in Negros Occidental that has a dome. If you’re wondering what a pro-cathedral is, it’s basically a runner up to the existing cathedral in the province, the San Sebastian Cathedral.

Though it ranks at second place in this respect, it is still a beautiful building that attracts many tourists. It was designed by an Italian architect and was built in 1925.

16. PULANG TUBIG WATERFALLS

Pulang Tubig (literally “red water”) can be found in a protected area called the Northern Negros Natural Park. The park is surrounded by lush forests and several river systems that make the area a tranquil sanctuary, perfect for those who want to be one with nature.

HOW TO GET TO PULANG TUBIG WATERFALLS

If you want to get to Pulang Tubig waterfalls. You need to go trekking from a lovely community called Patag which is 20 minutes away from Silay City and about an hour-long ride from Bacolod City. Aside from the majestic waterfalls, the park is also home to native birds, deer, bats and different local plants.

FOOD BACOLOD TOURIST SPOTS AND THINGS TO DO IN BACOLOD

17. VISIT MANOKAN COUNTRY

When visiting Manokan Country you have to try Inasal. It is Bacolod’s pride and joy, making it the #1 must-try food in the city. This unique version of charcoal grilled chicken originated in Bacolod and is cooked with a marinade of calamansi, coconut vinegar, pepper and annato.

All these herbs and spices give inasal its unique flavor that people from all over the world fall in love with. It’s a must in the list of Bacolod tourist spots Moanokan Country.

Since Bacolod is inasal‘s hometown, there’s no better place to try it than here. Head on out to Manokan Country, Bacolod’s street market that specializes in this delightful chicken dish. There are a few places where you can try chicken always full of people! For sure it’s the best place to go for dinner. Prices of orders are around 100 PHP chicken and rice!

18. TRY CANSI

If you’ve ever heard of bulalo, it would be easy enough for you to imagine what cansi is, the Ilonggo version of said Filipino dish. For those who think those two words sound made up, bulalo and cansi are basically dishes cooked with the same main ingredient: beef shank.

However, the shank isn’t necessarily the highlight of cansi. The star is actually the bone marrow, which can be eaten by using the wrong end of your spoon/fork to scoop the marrow from the bone. Even shaking the bone downwards to let the marrow fall out might do the trick!

Prices for order is around 350 PHP and it’s a complete soup full of meat that can be share for a few of you. One of the things to do in Bacolod for sure!

19. HAVE A SWEET TASTE AT CALEA

Our favorite place for dessert and coffee. You can fine delicious cake for 100 PHP and there are so many flavors to taste. Great place for a coffee, it’s located in the popular Lacson Street where you will find many restaurants around. Another of the Bacolod tourist spots that you cant miss if you are a foodie.

20. MILA’S BAKERY

Mila’s Bakery and coffee shop has delicious bread and the most popular ones are Bitchokoy and Potato Cake. There are sweets starting from 10 PHP and the place it’s crowded in the afternoon. You can find at Robinson’s Triangle Shopping area.

21. HYKSOS PALA-PALA SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

In Hyksos Pala-Pala Restaurant in Bacolod Bayview Foodcourt in Burgos Street, you’ll have the chance to munch on those yummy fresh seafood of Bacolod! The process here is easy.

You’ll choose which fresh seafood you want from the wet market area and just let them know how you want it to be cooked. Make sure to try sinigang na isda, kinilaw, and buttered shrimps.

22. ENJOY MASKARA FESTIVAL

Celebrated every fourth Sunday of October, Masskara Festival is one of the best street parties in the entire nation. Bacolod is famously known as The City of Smiles, and the masks worn by performers on the streets show eternal smiles on their faces as they give their praise and thanks through dance. No better one in this list of Bacolod tourist spots if you have the opportunity.

All the participants aim to please audiences and do their best to win the annual street dance competition. At night, the competition is taken to a whole new level with the Electric Masskara event where participants use lights for their costumes.

BEACHES AROUND BACOLOD AREA

23. LAKAWON ISLAND

Lakawon Island is located North Bacolod almost two hours driving. It’s a perfect place to swim, relax, snorkeling or doing activities like kayaking. You can spend the day and even stay at night if you wish. There are cottages for rent.

HOW TO GET FROM BACOLOD TO LAKAWON ISLAND

The bus from Bacolod to Cadiz Viejo will take 1 hour and a half. The bus fare from Bacolod North Terminal to Cadiz Viejo is 105 PHP.

Once in Cadiz Viejo a round trip boat is 150 PHP. You will have to pay 20 PHP Terminal Fee and the entrance fee to Lakawon Island is 150 PHP.

24. TAWHAI FLOATING BAR

Tawhai Floating Bar is one of the biggest in Asia. To get to Tawhai Floating Bar is only possible by boat from Lakawon Island. There are unlimited return boats for 300 PHP and includes a soft drink.

25. CARBIN REEF

Carbin Reef is a perfect place to enjoy swimming and snorkeling. There are cottages for renting if you want to spend the day but there aren’t places to stay at night.

HOW TO GET FROM BACOLOD TO CARBIN REEF

If you want to get from Bacolod to Carbin Reef. You have to get a bus from North Ceres Bus Terminal and going to Sagay. Prices are 170 PHP and the travel time from Bacolod to Sagay is around 3 hours.

Once in Sagay Bus Terminal get a tricycle to the port around 70 PHP. The boat will take 20 minutes and prices for the boat is 1200 PHP good enough for 10 people. Carbin Reef entrance fee is 100 PHP.

HOTELS IN BACOLOD CITY

There are over a hundred pension houses and numerous very accommodating hotels in Bacolod City. These accommodations can be found all over town and have easy access to the best tourist spots. Here’s a short list of pension houses, hotels in Bacolod City along with the cost of stay per night:

THE SUITES AT CALLE NUEVA

With breakfast, Wifi and all the comfort that you need for an affordable price: P1000 per night for a single room and P1500 for a double room.

Click here to check their availability!

MAINSTREET PENSION HOUSE
Double room (good for 2 persons) – P900 / night
Triple room (good for 3 persons) – P1,200 / night

L’FISHER HOTEL (4-STAR HOTEL)

The pool area with infinity pool is so beautiful. Ideal for a getaway and prices are starting: Rooms per night costs from P2,000.

Click here to check their availability!

CIRCLE INN

It’s located close to downtown and these are the prices: Standard room twin (good for 2 persons) – P2,300 / night
Standard room queen (good for 2 persons) – P2,300 / night and Deluxe room twin – P3,200 / night.

Click here to check their availability!

SEDA HOTEL (4-STAR HOTEL)

A very modern and new brand in Bacolod: Rooms per night costs from P4,000

Click here to check their availability!

These hotels in Bacolod City are accommodating and affordable. We recommend that you try one of these many options as they are sure to give you the comfort and rest that you deserve after a long day of traveling and exploring.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION IN BACOLOD BEFORE YOUR TRIP WITH BOOKING AND AGODA!

WHAT TO EAT IN BACOLOD CITY

OYSTER

There are oysters available in Manokan Country apart from the popular Inasal Chicken. The prices is 60 PHP for a dish and it’s quite big the order. So delicious for a cheap price!

BIBINGKA

Bibingka is another popular Filipino street food. This egg based dessert is eaten alongside .It’s usually served on a banana leaf. Prices are starting at 5 PHP and it’s filled with buko.

KINILAW

This seafood fish famous all over the Philippines is said to be comparable to ceviche. In essence, though, kinilaw (literally “eaten raw”) refers to the process of using vinegar’s acidity to cook meat or fish. It is more commonly used with fish and is served with other souring ingredients like green mangoes. It is then seasoned with pepper, chili and onions.

It does well as an appetizer but is more ideally served with beer as pulutan (finger food). With the abundance of fresh fish in Bacolod, kinilaw isn’t hard to find.

LUMPIANG BACOLOD

Also known as lumpiang sariwa or lumpiang ubod, this delicacy is literally just fresh spring rolls and is abundant in Bacolod. Unlike the more typical preparation of spring rolls, lumpiang bacolod is not friend and is eaten with a soft wrapper, special peanut sauce and vegetables inside. This dish is pretty common all over the country and is a popular merienda or mid-day snack.

DANGGIT

Apart from the ones mentioned above, there are plenty of other seafood available in Bacolod like shrimp and talaba (oysters). Of course, different kinds of fish also abound in Bacolod and they are prepared and processed in different ways. One famous variant of fish found in the region is danggit, or salted and dried rabbitfish. It’s crunchy and salty, perfect to dip in vinegar, eat with hot rice and fried egg in the morning. Yum!

FESTIVALS IN BACOLOD CITY

Like any Catholic or Europe-influenced nation, the Philippines holds lots of festivals all over its islands. These celebrations vary from place to place, and some of the most exciting and colorful ones can be found in the Visayas region, particularly in Negros Occidental. Here are two of the best festivals in the area to attend:

PANAAD SA NEGROS FESTIVAL

As we’ve mentioned, the Philippines is home to a multitude of festivals all over the archipelago. One province doesn’t hold just one festival each year; each one has various things to celebrate! A great way to catch up on all the festivals you’ve missed in Negros is to attend the Panaad sa Negros Festival.

This celebration is held in Panaad Park and Panaad Stadium. Events include the Festival Dances competition, Folk Dance competition and the Lin-ay sang Negros (Festival Queen Coronation Night).

That’s it for us! We hope you enjoyed reading this guide and learned a lot about Bacolod tourist spots and Negros. If you liked our things to do in Bacolod Travel Guide, share it with your friends on Facebook. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions!

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Happy Travels!