Things To Do
in Tacloban
Tacloban is the capital of Leyte in the Philippines, perched along the San Pedro Bay with a rich history from World War II and a warm, welcoming culture. It serves as a gateway to Leyte’s natural beauty, from pristine beaches to hillside viewpoints and nearby islands. The city blends heritage sites, bustling markets, and fresh seafood, making it a convenient base for exploring eastern Visayas.
Expect a lively, food-loving atmosphere with occasional tropical weather and friendly locals eager to share stories of their hometown.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down at Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport and settle into your charming city-center hotel. Wander along Rizal Street, taking in roadside vendors and colorful jeepneys. Enjoy a steaming cup of local Visayan coffee at a bustling café.
Visit the Museo de Leyte to uncover Tacloban’s history through artifacts and interactive exhibits. Wander through the adjacent plaza and observe daily life. Sample tangy kinilaw from a nearby eatery.
Dine on fresh seafood at a seaside restaurant overlooking the Leyte Gulf. Catch a glimpse of the sunset painting the horizon in shades of coral and gold. End the night with lively conversation and music at a local bar.
Hop in a tricycle and head to Palo for the Santo Nino Shrine & Heritage Museum. Explore well-preserved colonial rooms and the personal collections of Imelda Marcos. Marvel at eclectic exhibits under towering century-old acacia trees.
Sample authentic pancit Molo at a nearby eatery before wandering through the garden. Discover hidden chapels and vibrant murals depicting Philippine history. Snap photos of ornate furniture and antique dolls that line historic corridors.
Return to Tacloban for a casual dinner at a local carenderia. Try a bowl of hot batchoy to warm your senses. Stroll the waterfront under the glow of lanterns, chatting with fishermen mending nets.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🚗Short taxi ride | $2-4 |
| 🛏Mid-range hotel (per night) | $25-60 |
| 🎟Museum/attraction entry | $1-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Friendly locals and excellent seafood
- Gateway to Leyte’s natural beauty
- Relatively affordable prices
- Nightlife is modest compared to bigger cities
- Weather can be typhoon-prone
- Some infrastructure can feel basic outside the city center
- Limited English in more rural areas
- "Kumusta" - Hello / How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Pila?" - How much is this?
- "Asan an cr." - Where is the bathroom?
- "Oo / Dili" - Yes / No
- "Palihug" - Please
Places to Visit in Tacloban
Visit one of these nice places.
One of the longest bridges in the Philippines, spanning the San Juanico Strait with expansive views—especially stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Iconic WWII memorial site with statues and a dramatic shoreline, ideal for wide-angle and storytelling shots.
A grand heritage building with ornate architecture and displays; great for interior and exterior photography with historical context.
Active waterfront area with boats and skyline glimpses; good for sunset photography and candid street scenes.
Food in Tacloban
Tacloban Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A Leyte dessert made from grated cassava (kamot) and coconut milk, usually baked in gabi leaves. Flavorful, sweet, and commonly found in local markets and pastry stalls.
Must-Try!
Sticky rice cake served with hot chocolate drink; a comforting breakfast or snack option found at markets and traditional eateries.
Filipino-style ceviche using fresh fish, vinegar, citrus, and spices; widely available at seafood restaurants and markets.
Roasted pig with crackling skin; popular during festivals and special occasions, available in many restaurants around Tacloban.
Light fish soup with ginger and leafy greens; a common, comforting dish in local eateries and homes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh seafood, produce, and regional snacks; great for sampling local flavors and buying ingredients.
Night markets and street stalls offering kwek-kwek (fried quail egg fritters), fish balls, skewers, and local sweets.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Be friendly and courteous; addressing elders with 'po' and 'opo' is appreciated in conversations.
Dress modestly when visiting churches; remove hats indoors and ask for permission before taking photos inside sacred spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Tacloban
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. If service charge isn’t included, 5-10% in restaurants and a small amount for guides or drivers is common.
Cash is widely accepted; ATMs are common in the city. Many restaurants and hotels accept major credit cards, but smaller vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mar–May: hot, humid days with bright sunshine. Plan early-morning or late-afternoon activities; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Jun–Oct: frequent rain showers and the potential for typhoons. Check weather forecasts, carry a light rain jacket, and be prepared for possible travel disruptions.
Nov–Feb: more comfortable temperatures and drier weather; ideal for city walking tours and outdoor exploration.
Tacloban at Night
Hiking in Tacloban
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest-covered mountain near Baybay with biodiverse trails; best explored with a local guide for safety and biodiversity viewing.
Airports
How to reach Tacloban by plane.
Primarily serves domestic flights to Manila, Cebu, and other Philippine destinations; central to downtown Tacloban with taxi or ride-hailing access.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant language and cultural identity in Leyte; strong family networks and Catholic traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely popular across the Philippines; plenty of local courts and leagues in towns around Leyte.
A tradition in Filipino culture with local gyms and community competitions.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tacloban.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Tacloban, opt for vegetable dishes, tofu-based options, and rice meals; ask for no fish sauce or meat stock and look for fresh vegetable stews and noodle dishes.