Vigan, Philippines: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Vigan, Philippines? If you're planning to go to Vigan, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Vigan, Philippines

Based on the climate and weather in Vigan, Philippines, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Vigan, Philippines

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Vigan, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Vigan, Philippines by month

January

If you vacation in Vigan during January, you will probably find that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vigan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. It's important that you pick the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most locations.

If you plan to see the must-see St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Hidden Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

If you vacation in Vigan during February, you might notice that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vigan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to get the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

If you plan to see the must-see St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Hidden Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

March for Vigan can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vigan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you plan to see the must-see St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Hidden Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

April here can be very hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vigan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Be careful to find the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to see the must-see St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Hidden Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

Traveling to Vigan in May, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vigan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to get the right type. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you plan to see the must-see St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Hidden Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June in this region is consistently hot. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vigan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to pick the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to see the must-see St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Hidden Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

July for Vigan can be very hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vigan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Ensure that you get the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you plan to see the must-see St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Hidden Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

Traveling to Vigan in August, you will notice that it is extremely warm. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vigan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to choose the necessary kind. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you plan to see the must-see St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Hidden Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

If you go to Vigan in September, you will notice that it is really hot. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vigan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to see the must-see St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Hidden Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

Traveling to Vigan in October, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vigan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Take care to get the right kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to see the must-see St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Hidden Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

Traveling to Vigan in November, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vigan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Check that you get the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to see the must-see St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Hidden Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

Traveling to Vigan in December, you will notice that it is extremely hot. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Philippines has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Voice and data SIM card

    A SIM card that works in Vigan. A good global SIM card works in most countries, but check the country list before buying. In some more rural areas you may need a satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phone.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials
  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types A, B and C. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters for sale now are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to see the must-see St. Paul's Metropolitan Cathedral, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Hidden Garden, you're likely to do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Vigan, Philippines

Vigan, the capital city of Ilocos Sur, Philippines, is one of the top tourist destinations in the country. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its well-preserved architecture that reflects its rich Spanish colonial past. The city's unique blend of historic charm and modern attractions makes it a must-visit destination for every traveler. Here are the top tourist attractions in Vigan that you should not miss:

1. Calle Crisologo - This street is the most well-known and famous attraction in Vigan. It is lined with heritage houses dating back to the Spanish colonial era, now converted into souvenir shops, restaurants, and hotels. The street has been preserved to maintain its early 19th-century vibe, and visitors can enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride, taking them back in time.

2. Vigan Cathedral - The St. Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, commonly known as Vigan Cathedral, is a beautiful structure located in the historic city center. Its interior is adorned with splendidly carved wooden altars, saint images, and impressive stained-glass windows.

3. Baluarte - This is a free-admission zoo located atop a hill in Vigan. It features a variety of animals such as tigers, bears, zebras, and more. The zoo is owned by former Ilocos Sur Governor, Chavit Singson.

4. Bantay Church Bell Tower - This historical landmark is a prominent feature of the Bantay Church Complex in Vigan. It was constructed in the 1590s and played a significant role in the Philippine Revolution and World War II.

5. Pagburnayan - This pottery-making district in Vigan is a testament to the traditional Filipino craftsmanship. Visitors can witness the skilled artisans utilizing the traditional method of making pottery by hand, using age-old techniques passed down through generations.

6. Hidden Gardens - A beautiful and peaceful park that features a collection of exotic plants, flowers, and trees. The garden also boasts various structures with intricate designs such as koi ponds, bridges, and fountains.

7. Syquia Mansion - This opulent mansion was the ancestral home of former Philippine President Elpidio Quirino's wife, Dona Alicia Syquia-Quirino. It was converted into a museum filled with relics and memorabilia from the President and his family.

8. Mindoro Beach - This beautiful beach is located a few kilometers away from Vigan city center. The beach area boasts powdery white sand, crystal clear waters, and charming grass-roofed cottages perfect for a relaxing day under the sun.

In conclusion, Vigan is a city that offers a unique cultural experience to every traveler. It is a well-preserved colonial town that has managed to maintain the charm of its historic past while also being modern and vibrant. Whether you are a history buff, a food enthusiast or just looking for a place to unwind, Vigan is definitely a must-visit location in the Philippines.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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