Welcome to the TPT Journey Information to BACOLOD! On this article, we’ll share with you recommendations on which space to remain in Bacolod, get there from Manila, and get round. You’ll additionally discover a pattern itinerary with funds breakdown.
There are locations that you’ll keep in mind not due to what you noticed however the way it made you’re feeling. Bacolod is a type of locations.
Bacolod doesn’t have the spectacular sights that different locations within the Philippines boldly and loudly brag about. However what it lacks in visible treats, it makes up for by delighting the opposite senses. It’s in good firm, too. Bacolod could not have the sweeping landscapes, however its posse have greater than their share. Neighbor Murcia makes a splash together with her waterfalls. Silay and Talisay have plenty of tales to inform. And simply 4-5 hours away are Kabankalan, Cauayan, and Sipalay, all ready to showcase their pure splendor to those that go the additional mile.
BACOLOD TRAVEL CHECKLIST
Earlier than we dive into the small print, right here’s a guidelines of journey necessities if you’re touring to Bacolod. You’ll additionally discover hyperlinks to a few of our really helpful inns, excursions, and points of interest for simple reference sooner or later.
Bacolod Journey Necessities
High Bacolod Day Excursions
✅ You can too go to our The Poor Traveler Masterlist. Right here, we compiled journey necessities, together with all our really helpful inns and points of interest. Simply go to this web page: TPT Masterlist. Then, scroll till you see the part about Bacolod. We even have a compilation for different locations world wide.
UNDERSTANDING BACOLOD
Bacolod is broadly recognized for 3 issues: sweets, smiles, and the Masskara Competition. Oh, and rooster inasal. So okay, make that 4 issues. Haha. It’s the capital of Negros Occidental, one of many greatest provinces within the nation when it comes to land space and inhabitants. But, an enormous a part of its territory stays unknown to non-residents.
Negros Occidental has 13 cities (together with unbiased Bacolod) and 19 municipalities. That’s a variety of cities in only one province. However earlier than you conjure up pictures of skyscrapers, know that Bacolod is the one one that’s extremely urbanized. The others are extra like small cities, extra laid-back and nonetheless fairly rustic.
Different information that you must know:
- Language: Hiligaynon (Ilonggo). English and Tagalog are broadly understood.
- Foreign money: Philippine peso (PhP). PHP 100 = USD 2, EUR 1.65, KRW 22000, JPY 218
- Timezone: GMT+8 (Philippine Normal Time), year-round. No daylight saving time noticed. Similar time zone as Beijing, Singapore, and Malaysia. One hour behind Japan.
- Mode of Cost: Money. ATMs are throughout Bacolod, however they flip a lot fewer in different cities and municipalities. Should you’re exploring different components of Negros Occidental from Bacolod, you would possibly need to withdraw cash whilst you’re within the capital. Bank cards are sometimes accepted in upscale institutions in Bacolod, however money continues to be most popular.
WHERE TO STAY IN BACOLOD
Normally, as a result of there are many transportation choices, for those who’re staying inside the metropolis middle of Bacolod, try to be tremendous. However we normally use Lacson Avenue as our reference line as a result of most of the metropolis’s hottest points of interest are situated alongside this highway. The nearer you might be to Lacson Avenue, the higher. If you need one thing extra particular, I like utilizing Calea because the reference level as a result of I at all times discover myself craving their muffins after I’m within the metropolis.
We’ve stayed at six totally different inns throughout Metro Bacolod, however listed below are a few properties that we had been in a position to attempt not too long ago. First, UrbanView @ Lacson Avenue Bacolod Metropolis by RedDoorz, which is centrally situated. Sure, it stands very near Calea, Felicia’s, and the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol. You’ll additionally discover a department of each Bongbong’s and Merczi pasalubong retailers close by.
We stayed in a deluxe room with air-conditioning, WiFi, TV, in-room phone, foldable mattress desk, electrical kettle, and complimentary bottled water. As for the toilet, primary toiletries had been offered, the water heater was working properly, and the water strain was good. The room was good for 2 friends. It’s a funds lodge, and we solely paid P1616.45 per night time, which I feel is an effective deal! That’s solely P808 per particular person.
The room is kind of cramped, and it doesn’t have an elevator. However the workers had been very useful with the baggage and attentive to requests. Should you’re a funds traveler and it’s your first time in Bacolod, UrbanView is an effective place to start out.
However if you would like a correct full-service lodge near the port or SM Metropolis Bacolod or SMX Conference Middle, perhaps Acacia Lodge Bacolod is the place for you. All their rooms are very spacious, have air-conditioning, free WiFi, safes, flat display screen TV, fridge, electrical kettle, and day by day housekeeping. It’s typically clear, and the service was nice. Additionally it is house to the town’s first wave pool — enjoyable, family-friendly, and ideal for lounging.
The bar under affords buy-one-take-one cocktails, however the breakfast was so-so at greatest. We didn’t thoughts as a result of, like we at all times say, we’re not massive breakfast individuals.
It’s in a secluded space away from the principle streets, however not removed from the motion and nonetheless very accessible. You’ll be able to hail a tricycle, no downside.
It’s quiet in idea. The AC in our room, nonetheless, was rumbling a bit too loudly. However for PHP 2595 per night time, I feel it’s a superb worth for cash.
High Accommodations in Bacolod
Listed here are a number of the top-rated inns in Bacolod Metropolis in accordance with on-line traveler evaluations.
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HOW TO GET TO BACOLOD
The Bacolod-Silay Worldwide Airport (BCD) is the gateway to the province. Though it has Bacolod in its title, it’s fully situated within the metropolis of Silay.
There are direct flights to and from this airport from Manila, Cebu, and Davao by way of the next airways:
Manila to Bacolod
- Philippine Airways
- Cebu Pacific
- AirAsia
Cebu to Bacolod
- Philippine Airways
- Cebu Pacific
Davao to Bacolod
Should you guide prematurely, standard one-way fares are round PHP 1400 and might go as little as PHP 1200. Even decrease when there’s a SALE. That’s for off-peak season.
Bacolod-Silay Airport to Bacolod Metropolis Middle
From the airport, you may attain Bacolod in 30 to 45 minutes. There are vans (shuttles) that may take you there straight for PHP 200-250 per passenger, relying in your cease and baggage.
However for those who’re a gaggle, it will likely be extra cost-efficient to only guide a Seize automobile. We had been a gaggle of three and paid solely PHP 487, or roughly P162 per particular person. That’s cheaper than taking the van.
Journey Time: 30-45 minutes
Fare: Van, P200-250 per pax; Seize, P400-500 per experience
HOW TO GET AROUND BACOLOD
As a extremely urbanized metropolis, Bacolod affords a variety of transportation choices to its residents and guests.
Jeepney
The most cost effective is the conventional jeepney, which prices PHP 11 for brief distances. The e-Jeep or electrical jeepney is barely costlier at PHP 15 per particular person. Both approach, that you must be aware of the route that the jeep will likely be taking to ensure you’re on the fitting path. You’ll be able to await a jeepney by the roadside. And to get off, simply say “Lugar lang,” which is their equal of “Para po.” The automobile will then cease and wait so that you can alight.
Should you’re confused otherwise you really feel such as you’re misplaced, simply ask the motive force or fellow passengers. Bacolod locals are a number of the friendliest we’ve met, and I’m positive they are going to assist you to kind issues out.
Fare: Common Jeepney, PHP 11; E-Jeep, PHP 15
Tricycle
Tricycles are additionally obtainable, though not as fashionable or as widespread. A “particular experience” normally prices PHP 50 for brief distances. However there was an occasion whereby we had been charged PHP 150, which turned out a lot increased than Seize worth.
Fare: PHP 50-150 (particular experience)
Seize
We ended up taking Seize as a substitute once we’re in a rush. Based mostly on expertise, these are the same old Seize fares for commonest vacationer routes:
- BCD Airport to Metropolis Middle: P400-500
- Inside Bacolod to Metropolis Middle: P80-P130
- Bacolod Metropolis Middle to The Ruins: P200
- El Superb to The Ruins: P330
- Bacolod to Silay Metropolis Middle (El Superb): P350
- Silay Metropolis Middle to BCD Airport: P160
- Bacolod Metropolis Middle to BCD Airport: P400-500
Taxis additionally function inside the metropolis. We had been instructed InDrive was additionally obtainable, however we by no means tried it right here, so we are able to’t verify.
Should you’re going to Mambukal, make your method to Mambukal-Bacolod Bus Terminal in Libertad. The fare is 60/head, and the journey time is 1 – 1.5 hours. The bus terminates proper on the entrance of Mambukal Scorching Spring Resort.
In case your itinerary entails visiting different locations within the province, you may take the bus at both the North Terminal or South Terminal.
Word: Silay Metropolis, together with the airport, Carbin Reef in Sagay, and Lakawon Island in Cadiz, are located north of Bacolod; whereas Sipalay and Cauayan, together with Danjugan Island, are within the south.
THINGS TO DO IN BACOLOD
Bacolod could also be often called the Metropolis of Smiles, however its allure goes approach past the pleasant locals and the well-known rooster inasal. When exploring the world, don’t simply restrict your self to Bacolod correct — Metro Bacolod additionally consists of the close by cities of Talisay and Silay, plus surrounding cities that provide much more points of interest. From heritage excursions to meals journeys and nature escapes, listed below are a number of the greatest issues to do whenever you’re in and round Bacolod.
That is only a fast run all the way down to get you began. For a extra detailed model with extra info, take a look at our full article right here: TOP THINGS TO DO IN BACOLOD
Should you want a trouble free journey, you may merely buy your tickets or guide your excursions by way of your trusted reserving websites.
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MassKara Competition
Should you time your go to in October, you’ll get to expertise Bacolod’s greatest occasion — the MassKara Competition. Anticipate vibrant road dances, parades of smiling masks, dwell concert events, and meals gala’s all around the metropolis. It’s crowded and chaotic, but it surely’s additionally one of the vital colourful and unforgettable festivals within the Philippines.
The Ruins
Situated in close by Talisay Metropolis, The Ruins is the skeletal stays of a grand mansion constructed within the early 1900s by a sugar baron for his late spouse. At sundown, the construction glows superbly, making it one of the vital photogenic spots within the province.
Mambukal Resort
Should you’re on the lookout for nature and rest, Mambukal Resort in Murcia is a best choice. The resort is known for its seven waterfalls, scorching sulfur springs, and luxurious forest setting. It’s a refreshing escape from the town and a favourite for each locals and vacationers.
Mambukal is about an hour away from Bacolod Metropolis, with direct buses from Libertad. In case you are an enormous group and touring with children and aged individuals, think about reserving a tour with Klook! That is inclusive of round-trip transfers, insurance coverage, native information/driver, and entrance payment.
Silay Metropolis Heritage Tour
Silay Metropolis is a treasure trove of ancestral homes and cultural landmarks. Many of those heritage houses have been preserved and was museums, supplying you with a glimpse of the opulent life-style in the course of the sugar increase period. The town itself is charming, with walkable streets lined with historical past at each nook.
Jojo Vito Designs Gallery
For one thing extra inventive, take a look at the Jojo Vito Designs Gallery in Bacolod. The gallery showcases colourful, handcrafted masks and residential décor items that mirror Bacolod’s artistic spirit. It’s additionally an amazing place to buy distinctive souvenirs, particularly if you wish to take house a chunk of MassKara artistry.
Negros Museum
The Negros Museum homes reveals that inform the story of Negros Island’s historical past, tradition, and artwork. You’ll discover a mixture of artifacts, modern works, and even outdated sugar business relics. It’s a superb cease for anybody wanting to know the island’s wealthy heritage past the festivals and meals.
Capitol Park and Lagoon
On the coronary heart of Bacolod lies the Capitol Park and Lagoon, a spacious public park with a man-made lagoon guarded by iconic carabao statues. It’s a well-liked spot for households, joggers, and even road performers. The encompassing space additionally has cafes and meals stalls, making it a pleasant place to unwind.
San Sebastian Cathedral and Public Plaza
For a dose of historical past and spirituality, go to the San Sebastian Cathedral, one in every of Bacolod’s most essential landmarks. Proper throughout is the Bacolod Public Plaza, a energetic hangout spot for locals and an amazing place to people-watch. Each websites are central to Bacolod’s cultural and spiritual life.
Meals Journey
In fact, no Bacolod journey is full with no meals journey. From the enduring rooster inasal to candy treats like piaya and muffins, Bacolod is a foodie paradise. On that notice, let’s proceed discussing this pleasant matter within the subsequent part.
Lakawon Island Day Journey
Lakawon Island lies off the coast of Cadiz, which is about one-hour drive north of Bacolod Metropolis. It’s recognized for its white sand seashores, crystal clear waters, and a sandbar. It additionally hosts Lakawon Island Resort & Spa, providing water actions and facilities, together with a restaurant, a beachfront bar, and one of many largest floating bars in Asia.
The jump-off level is Cadiz Viejo Port. It’s essential to notice that the final boat again to the mainland leaves at 3PM. From Bacolod’s North Bus Terminal, get on a bus certain for Cadiz Metropolis. Alight at Burgos Public Market, then hail a tricycle to the port. Should you want a hassle-free journey, you may simply guide a day journey bundle from Bacolod by way of Klook!
WHERE TO EAT IN BACOLOD
The advantage of Bacolod? You absolutely received’t go away with out tasting scrumptious, completely grilled rooster inasal. However this smoky, tangy goodness isn’t the one must-try meals in Bacolod. We’ve been to Bacolod a number of instances, and most of our journeys, our foremost motivation is none apart from…FOOD! From the town’s famed rooster inasal to its decadent candy treats, Bacolod by no means fails to fulfill our craving — from appetizers to desserts!
We made a extra detailed model of this text, the place we listed down our favourite locations to eat in Bacolod. You’ll be able to verify it right here: WHERE TO EAT IN BACOLOD
SAMPLE BACOLOD ITINERARY & BREAKDOWN
Listed here are two pattern itineraries for Bacolod with funds breakdown. The figures indicated are per particular person. However each of those itineraries assume you’re a celebration of two vacationers, splitting all prices, and taking public transportation for probably the most half. Public transportation fares (jeepney, bus) are overestimated (rounded off) to be on the secure facet. We selected Seize in cases when it makes extra sensible and monetary sense.
As at all times, be at liberty to make the required changes to match your schedule and preferences.
Bacolod 4-Day, 3-Night time Itinerary (Relaxed Possibility)
Pre-trip Reserving:
Lodge – P2430 (P1620/night time x 3 nights, divided by 2 pax)
DAY 1 – ARRIVAL & CITY TOUR
08:30 AM – Arrival in Bacolod
09:00 AM – Seize/Van to Metropolis Middle, P250/pax
10:00 AM – Lodge check-in
11:00 AM – Sharyn’s Cansi, P300
12:30 PM – Calle Luna Halo-Halo, P130
01:45 PM – Jeep/Seize/Stroll to Negros Museum
02:00 PM – Negros Museum, P150
03:30 PM – Capitol Park & Lagoon
04:10 PM – San Sebastian Cathedral
04:50 PM – Bacolod Public Plaza
06:00 PM – Sugba Sugba or Hen Home, P300
08:00 PM – Calea, P250
09:00 PM – Again to lodge, P25
Day 1: P1,405
DAY 2 – MAMBUKAL
06:30 AM – Switch to Mambukal-Bacolod Bus Terminal-Libertad, P25
07:00 AM – Bus to Mambukal, P60
08:00 AM – Arrival at Mambukal Resort, P140; Entry to Japanese Ofuro, P100
11:00 AM – Lunch, P200
02:00 PM – Bus to Bacolod, P60
03:30 PM – Jojo Vito Design Gallery, P160
05:00 PM – Dinner at Lion’s Park, P250
07:15 PM – Seize to Buttery, P60
07:30 PM – Buttery Bacolod, P250
09:00 PM – Again to lodge, P25
Day 2: P1,330
DAY 3 – SILAY & TALISAY
08:00 AM – Jeepney to North Terminal, P15
08:30 AM – Ceres Bus to Silay, P25
09:15 AM – San Diego Professional-Cathedral
09:45 AM – Bernardino Jalandoni Museum*, P150
10:45 AM – Hofileña Ancestral Home*, P150
11:45 AM – Cinco de Noviembre Marker, FREE
12:00 PM – El Superb Lunch, P300
02:00 PM – Bus to Honda/Pepsi, P25
02:45 PM – Tricycle to The Ruins, P50
03:00 PM – The Ruins, P150; Sugarcane Juice, P100
07:00 PM – Seize to Gina’s Seafoods, P100 (P200/2pax)
07:30 PM – Gina’s Seafoods, P300
09:00 PM – Again to lodge, P25
Day 3: P1,390
DAY 4 – DEPARTURE
10:00 AM – Take a look at
10:30 AM – Pasalubong Procuring
12:00 PM – Fast Lunch, P200
02:00 PM – Seize to Airport, P250
03:00 PM – Flight check-in
Day 4: P450
TOTAL: PHP 7,005 (USD 123, EUR 104, SGD 157)
Bacolod 3-Day, 2-Night time Itinerary (Price range Possibility)
This itinerary will take you to virtually all of the points of interest within the earlier 4-day model, however made extra compact.
As well as, since you’ll solely be spending two nights within the metropolis, we’re assuming you don’t have a lot baggage. Therefore, it is best to have the ability to discover Silay on the final day without having to go away it elsewhere.
Pre-trip Reserving:
Lodge – P1620 (P1620/night time x 2 nights, divided by 2 pax)
DAY 1 – ARRIVAL & CITY TOUR
08:30 AM – Arrival in Bacolod
09:00 AM – Seize/Van to Metropolis Middle, P250/pax
10:00 AM – Lodge check-in
11:00 AM – Sharyn’s Cansi, P300
12:30 PM – Calle Luna Halo-Halo, P130
02:00 PM – Negros Museum, P150
03:30 PM – Capitol Park & Lagoon
04:10 PM – San Sebastian Cathedral
04:50 PM – Bacolod Public Plaza
06:00 PM – Sugba Sugba or Hen Home, P300
08:00 PM – Calea, P250
09:00 PM – Again to lodge, P25
Day 1: P1,405
DAY 2 – MAMBUKAL & RUINS
06:30 AM – Switch to Mambukal-Bacolod Bus Terminal-Libertad, P25
07:00 AM – Bus to Mambukal, P60
08:00 AM – Arrival at Mambukal Resort, P140
11:00 AM – Lunch, P200
02:00 PM – Bus to Bacolod, P60
03:30 PM – Jeep to Pepsi, P25 + Trike, P50; Alternatively, Seize to the Ruins, P100 (P200/2pax)
04:00 PM – The Ruins, P150
07:30 PM – Seize to Gina’s Seafood, P100 (P200/2pax)
08:00 PM – Gina’s Seafoods, P300
09:00 PM – Again to lodge, P25
Day 2: P1,135
DAY 3 – SILAY & DEPARTURE
07:30 AM – Early take a look at
08:00 AM – Jeepney to North Terminal, P15
08:30 AM – Ceres Bus to Silay, P25
09:15 AM – San Diego Professional-Cathedral
09:45 AM – Bernardino Jalandoni Museum*, P150
10:45 AM – Hofileña Ancestral Home*, P150
11:45 AM – Cinco de Noviembre Marker, FREE
12:00 PM – El Superb Lunch, P300
02:00 PM – Seize to Airport, P80 (P160/2 pax); If van, P100/pax
02:30 PM – Flight check-in
Day 3: P720
TOTAL: PHP 4,880 (USD 85, EUR 73, SGD 109)
*Entrance charges to the Hofileña Museum and Bernardo Jalandoni Museum are assumed to be P150. In our expertise years in the past, it was lower than P100. On-line evaluations declare it’s P150. Sadly, each had been closed once we final visited, so we couldn’t verify it. We simply set it at P150 to be secure.
The full charges are inclusive of the lodge keep as indicated however unique of flights, pasalubong/souvenirs, and incidental bills, since these broadly differ and are extremely dependent in your circumstances and preferences.
However please add a minimum of P1000 extra to the funds to cowl worth actions and different attainable bills we’d have missed.
You probably have extra days, you may simply insert different locations or actions. For instance, you may embody a day journey to Lakawon Island in Cadiz. Or when you have further two days, you may keep in a single day on Danjugan Island in Cauayan or in Sipalay Metropolis, the place you’ll discover plenty of noteworthy locations to go to.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BACOLOD
When is the very best time to go to Bacolod?
Climate-wise, positively January to April. You’ll get loads of sunshine on your meals crawls, sightseeing, and facet journeys with out worrying in regards to the rain ruining your outfit. The shoulder months of November, December, and Might are additionally fairly nice.
Only a warning: for those who come between March and Might, the warmth can get intense, you’ll principally be marinating in your individual sweat. On the brilliant facet, it’s the right excuse to down halo-halo after halo-halo.
Does that imply it is best to fully keep away from June to October? No, probably not. Sure, it’s the height of the wet season, but it surely doesn’t imply downpours occur all day, day-after-day. The truth is, our most up-to-date Bacolod journey occurred in JULY, but it surely by no means rained in any respect. Not even a little bit drizzle.
Now, for those who’re the kind who doesn’t thoughts a little bit danger, you would luck out, too. On the plus facet, lodge charges drop, and also you received’t be elbowing your approach by way of crowds. Simply pack an umbrella and perhaps some endurance, and make your itinerary as versatile as you may make it.
If you wish to expertise Bacolod in full social gathering mode, are available in October for the MassKara Competition. Image Mardi Gras, however with extra smiles, extra meals, and simply as a lot visitors. It’s the town’s loudest, busiest, most colourful time of the 12 months.
The draw back? Lodge costs skyrocket, and eating places get packed. If you wish to expertise MassKara, guide as early as you probably can.
What sort of energy plug / socket is utilized in Bacolod?
The usual voltage within the Philippines is 220V at a frequency of 60Hz. Usually, the plug and socket sort used is Sort A, which has two flat parallel pins.
Is Bacolod secure?
Sure, Bacolod is mostly secure.
Once more, Bacolod locals are a number of the friendliest we’ve met. However it’s nonetheless greatest to be aware of your environment. At all times control your belongings and don’t go away them unattended.
You’ll be able to be aware of these emergency contact numbers:
Updates Log
2025 9 25 – First uploaded
Extra Phrases by: Asta Alvarez (Lakawon Island & FAQs – Electrical energy Data & Security)
