Things To Do
in Bacolod
Bacolod is a dynamic city on Negros Island known for warm hospitality and a sugar-rich heritage. Often called the City of Smiles, it greets visitors with lively streets, green parks, and a surprising culinary scene. The city blends grand heritage houses with modern cafes and a festive spirit that shines during the MassKara Festival.
It serves as a gateway to Negros’ natural wonders and a gateway for food lovers exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the San Sebastian Cathedral, an iconic neo-gothic structure that stands as a beautiful testament to Bacolod's rich history. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the streets of the historic center, taking in the charming architecture and vibrant local life. Don’t miss the chance to grab a traditional breakfast at a nearby café, savoring local delicacies like puto and tsokolate.
After lunch, head to the Negros Museum, where you can immerse yourself in the region's cultural and historical heritage through engaging exhibits and artifacts. Spend some time leisurely exploring the lush gardens surrounding the museum, perfect for a quiet afternoon break. As the sun starts to dip, make your way to the nearby Plaza Libertad to witness local artists and musicians showcasing their talents.
In the evening, dine at a local restaurant famous for its Bacolod chicken inasal, a must-try grilled chicken dish marinated in a special mix of spices. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you interact with friendly locals and fellow travelers. After dinner, take a relaxing walk along Lacson Street, where you can find lively bars and cafes to unwind.
If you are visiting in October, kick off your day by immersing yourself in the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere of the MassKara Festival. Join the locals in the streets adorned with intricate masks and costumes, celebrating Bacolod’s spirit of joy and resilience. Enjoy breakfast at a street vendor, sampling local treats while watching the preparations for the festival's parade.
Continue your festival experience by participating in workshops showcasing traditional Filipino crafts and dance. Engage with local artisans and learn about the cultural significance of the festival through interactive displays. As the afternoon sun shines, enjoy local food stalls offering a variety of delicious dishes, from barbecue skewers to sweet delicacies.
As evening falls, prepare for the grand festival parade filled with vibrant floats and energetic performances. Join the crowd in cheering for the participants dressed in flamboyant costumes, showcasing the creativity and talent of Bacolod's residents. After the parade, join a nightlife venue where the festival atmosphere continues with music and dance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🚌Local transportation (short ride) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-80 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-4 |
| 🧁Local pastry or dessert | $2-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming locals and a rich culinary scene
- Affordability and diverse day trips within Negros
- Relatively compact city center with walkable areas
- Access to both cultural heritage and natural attractions
- Heat and humidity can be intense during the dry season
- Public transport outside the city center is limited
- Some attractions require a bit of travel time or guiding for hikes
- Not all areas accept credit cards; carry cash for markets
- "Maayong adlaw" - Good day
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Palihog" - Please
- "Asa ang CR?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Pila ni?" - How much is this?
- "Pwede ko litrato kuhaon?" - May I take a photo?
Places to Visit in Bacolod
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic ruined mansion with lush grounds and dramatic lighting; a quintessential backdrop for day and night photography.
Well-kept gardens around a central fountain, offering classic architectural shots with vibrant greenery.
A grand cathedral with imposing spires and intricate details perfect for architectural photography.
Heritage house with period interiors and well-preserved exteriors—great for historical and portrait photography.
Lush jungle trails and cascading falls provide natural photography opportunities, plus misty morning scenes.
Food in Bacolod
Bacolod Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Char-grilled chicken marinated in a bright, tangy mix and served with eaten rice and a dipping sauce; best found at Manokan Country or popular stalls along Lacson Street.
Must-Try!
A sour beef or bone marrow soup with a lemongrass aroma, similar to sinigang but richer; try it at traditional Filipino eateries around the city.
A flaky puff pastry with creamy custard filling and a sugar glaze; widely available in local bakeries like Napoleones-style stalls and bakeries around The Ruins and Lacson Street.
A sesame-topped flatbread sweet treat that makes a great snack to take on the go from markets and bakeries across the city.
Decadent cakes and pastries that Bacolod is known for; look for signature cakes and locally inspired flavors at popular bakeries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A busy hub for fresh produce, seafood, regional snacks, and everyday ingredients; a great place to sample street food and pick up local ingredients.
A string of casual eateries and stalls offering quick bites, grilled skewers, and local snacks with a lively nighttime vibe.
A cluster of stalls dedicated to grilled chicken inasal and regional complements; perfect for a casual, flavorful dinner experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm, polite greeting goes a long way. Use 'Maayong adlaw' (Good day) or 'Salamat' (Thank you). Show respect to elders and avoid loud behavior in public places.
Ilonggo (Hiligaynon) is widely spoken; Filipino and English are common in tourist areas. Asking before taking photos of people is courteous.
Safety
Tipping in Bacolod
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory in most casual eateries, but a 5-10% tip is appreciated for good service. Some hotels and larger establishments may include a service charge; check your bill.
Cash (Philippine peso) is widely accepted, with many places taking major credit cards in hotels, larger restaurants, and shopping centers. ATMs are common in cities; small markets may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
March to May is hot and humid; mornings are pleasant and afternoons can be blazing. Plan outdoor activities early and seek shade or air-conditioned spots; stay hydrated.
June to October brings frequent rain and humidity, with occasional typhoons. Use waterproof gear, have flexible plans, and favor indoor museums or pagodas between showers.
November to February offers cooler temperatures and lower humidity, making city strolls and heritage tours comfortable; evenings can be breezy—bring a light jacket.
Bacolod at Night
Hiking in Bacolod
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A challenging volcano hike with crater views; permits and a guide are typically required; plan a full day or overnight trek.
Forest trails near Bacolod offering city views from the higher slopes; suitable for a half-day to full-day hike depending on route.
Ridge and forest trails near the resort area; easier to access and great for scenic photography and family hikes.
Airports
How to reach Bacolod by plane.
Primary airport serving Bacolod; domestic flights with occasional regional connections. Located in Silay City, about a 20–30 minute drive from central Bacolod depending on traffic.
Major hub about a 1.5–2.5 hour overland drive from Bacolod; can be a practical alternative for longer connections or certain international itineraries.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority local linguistic group with a strong sense of community and family orientation; Catholic traditions are common.
Smaller but active communities contributing to business, education, and hospitality sectors.
People drawn to Bacolod for work, study, and entrepreneurship; a growing mix of cultures in urban areas.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport at local courts and gyms; many communities organize pickup games and leagues.
Common among schools and parks; casual matches and weekend games are popular in city parks.
Widely played in schools and municipal facilities, especially in coastal areas and resorts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bacolod.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetable-focused dishes, but be mindful of fish sauce and broth in some soups. Ask for no meat and request vegetable-rich options; many places can accommodate with advance notice.