Bacolod City Travel Guide:Things to Do, Food, Itinerary & Travel Tips

On our Bacolod City travel guide, we went to explore the city in the Philippines known for its name as the City of Smile. We went to explore Bacolod tourists, a visit to the mountain of Campuestohan Highland Resort, witness the ancient architecture of The Ruins and visit San Sebastian Church. Aside from this Bacolod is also known as the country’s local provider of sugar cane which in turns to be processed as refined sugar

Quick Guide Bacolod City Travel Guide

📍 Location: Negros Occidental, Philippines
😊Known As: City of Smiles
❤️ Famous For: Chicken Inasal, MassKara Festival
📅 Recommended Stay: 2–3 days
👍 Best For: Food lovers, families, culture travelers
✈️ Airport: Bacolod-Silay Airport

Why Visit Bacolod?

Bacolod City, known as the “City of Smiles,” is one of the most charming destinations in the Philippines, offering a perfect combination of delicious food, rich culture, fascinating history, and warm local hospitality. The city is famous for chicken inasal, a smoky grilled chicken dish that has become one of the Philippines’ most beloved local specialties. A great destination for history and culture enthusiasts where visitors can explore iconic landmarks like The Ruins, and heritage houses of nearby Silay City. With its delicious cuisine, fascinating heritage, friendly locals, and laid-back atmosphere, Bacolod is an ideal destination for travelers looking for an unforgettable experience.

Where Is Bacolod city

Bacolod City is located in the Visayas region of the Philippines, specifically in the northwestern part of the island of Negros. It is the capital of Negros Occidental, a province known for sugar canes plantation in the region. Bacolod is situated along the coastline of the Guimaras Strait, facing the island of Guimaras, which separates it from the nearby Panay Island.

How To Go Bacolod City

The city is accessible by air through Bacolod-Silay Airport, which serves domestic flights and connects Bacolod to other major cities in the Philippines, like Manila and Cebu. Here are the list of common way how to get there.

By Air

Bacolod-Silay Airport is the primary airport serving Bacolod City. It is located about 15-20 kilometers from the city center, in Silay City. Visitors can fly directly to Bacolod-Silay Airport from major cities like Manila, Cebu, Davao, and other key locations in the Philippines.

From Manila to Bacolod: The flight typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
From Cebu to Bacolod: The flight is about 45 minutes.

By Ferry

Bacolod is well-connected to nearby cities via ferries, especially from Cebu and Dumaguete.

From Cebu to Bacolod: Ferries operate regularly between Cebu City and Bacolod Port. The journey usually takes around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the type of ferry.
From Dumaguete to Bacolod: Ferries are also available from Dumaguete in Negros Oriental. The trip typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.

By Bus

If you’re traveling from other cities in the Visayas or Mindanao, you can take a bus to Bacolod. There are several bus companies that operate routes to Bacolod from places like Cebu, Dumaguete, and Iloilo.

From Iloilo to Bacolod: It’s a popular route, and buses typically take around 1.5 to 2 hours to travel from Iloilo City to Bacolod via the Dumangas-Bacolod route.
From Cebu: You can take a bus to the nearest ferry terminal, then cross by ferry to Bacolod, where you can continue by bus to the city center.

How To Go from Silay Airport to Bacolod

The Bacolod-Silay Airport is located in Silay City, which is around 15-20 kilometers (about 9-12 miles) away from Bacolod City. To get from Bacolod-Silay Airport to Bacolod, you have several transportation options:

Taxi
Taxis are readily available at the airport exit, and they will take you directly to your destination in Bacolod. Travel time: Approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Private Car or Ride-hailing Apps (Grab)
Visitors can also arrange for a private car or use Grab, the popular ride-hailing service in the Philippines. Travel time: About 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
Public Vans (V-Hire)
There are also vans for hire (often called V-Hire), which offer shared rides from the airport to Bacolod City. The van terminal is just outside the airport, and you can easily find these vans ready to depart when they fill up.

Best Time To Visit In Bacolod City

November to March, Bacolod experiences the dry season, making this period a great time to visit for pleasant weather. The temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C which is perfect for exploring the city’s historical sites, nature parks, and nearby attractions.

DRY SEASON
(November to March)
Average Temperature: 27°C
Hottest Month: May

WET SEASON
(June to October)
Average Temperature: 31°C
Highest Rainful Month: July

Our last visit to Bacolod was in the month of July and as expected it was not good. When we arrived at the airport we were greeted with a heavy downpour of rain, luckily after 30 minutes, the rain manages to settle. So during our entire 3-day stay in Bacolod, the weather was mostly cloudy which end up us staying at the hotel.

Getting Around In Bacolod City

In Bacolod City, there are various transportation options to help you get around, whether you are exploring the city or traveling to nearby areas. Here are the main types of transportation available:

Jeepneys
The most common and affordable way to get around Bacolod. The jeepney routes connect to key areas of the city such public Plaza, Shopping Malls , etc.
Taxis
It is the convenient way to travel within the city to reach nearby malls, hotels, and transport terminals.
Private Cars / Ride-hailing (Grab)
Visitors who prefer comfort and convenience, the popular ride-hailing service in the Philippines – Grab is available in the city.

Best Food to Try in Bacolod

Our Bacolod City travel guide shows you to visit popular seafood restaurant-Aboy’s Restaurant, Nena’s Rose Chicken Inasal, cake shops like Felicia’s Pastry Shop, and Calea Pastries and Cake, and taste of local Filipino food Quan Delicacies.

Quan Delicacies

Quan Delicacies s known for its Filipino food delicacies serving a wide range of products such as Napoleones. Dulce de leche, Puto, Kutsinta, Cassava Cake, and Suman. They have a dining area that has innovative interior design and good lighting. Their food menu is also creative which includes Palabok, Lomi with Braised meat. So far, with a lot of stores popping up in Bacolod, Quan delicacies have the best delicacies we’ve tasted in Bacolod.

3 La Salle Avenue, Bacolod City
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM (DAILY)

Aboy's Restaurant

Aboy’s Restaurant is the homegrown restaurant in Bacolod that served Filipino local cuisine like Lechon Paksiw, Bicol express, Sisig, and Bulalo soup. They also serve seafood such as crab, squid and, scallops, and the famous blue marlin which highly recommended to eat. Restaurant ambiance was good and food service was great while the location was a bit difficult to navigate but when you reach the place it can compensate as it has a homey and relaxing atmosphere. The taste was good, while the food price ranges from Php 70 – Php 400. If you happen to come to Bacolod, this is a much visit place to taste the best seafood place.

Singcang, Liroville Subd
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (DAILY)

How To Get There
The best way to visit the place is to ride a taxi or private car since the location is quite far from the main access road.

Nena's Rose Chicken Inasal

Bacolod visit won’t be complete without trying their famous Chicken Inasal – also known as grilled chicken with special spices and the sauce that make it savory. One restaurant that stands out from the rest is Nena’s Rose Chicken Inasal which offers chicken inasal much tastier and juicer that makes it delicious, not to mention they have garlic rice which adds the mouthwatering experience. Aside from chicken inasal they also offer Fresh Oysters “Talaba” which is serve as an appetizer. The price of the food ranges from Php15-Php110. Overall they offer great tasting chicken inasal and oyster in Bacolod.

No. 6 Burgos Extension
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (DAILY)

Felicia's Pastry Shop

Felicia’s Pastry Shop is known for cakes and pastries in Bacolod City. We had our coffee and tasted their chocolate cake. The sweetness is just right It was not too sweet, but it was pleasing and delectable at a given good price.

6th St.Doll Building Bacolod City
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00PM (DAILY)

Calea Pastries and Cake

Bacolod’s visit won’t be complete without a slice of cake from Calea Pastries and Cake, which is the most famous cake and pastry shop in Bacolod. They offered a wide variety of cakes, pastries plus coffee which is very delicious and has a unique taste. The most popular sought to order was Blueberry Cheesecake and paired it with a cup of Americano which was the best. We also ordered ice cream chocolate cake and definitely, it was tasteful and mouth-watering. I believe the chocolate was well refined and very rich.

Lourdes Bldg., Lacson Street
Opening Hours:10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (DAILY)

Best Things To Do in Bacolod

Known as the “City of Smiles,” Bacolod offers a wonderful mix of heritage, culture, food, and attractions. Whether you are visiting for a weekend getaway or a longer holiday, there are plenty of things to do in Bacolod, from exploring historic landmarks to enjoying its famous culinary scene.. Here are some top places to visit when in Bacolod:

1. Visit The Ruins

One of Bacolod’s most iconic attractions, The Ruins is a beautifully preserved mansion that tells the story of Negros’ sugar plantation era. The Ruins is an ancestral house by the family of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson and Maria Braga Lacson. Visitors can explore the grounds, learn about the mansion’s history, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. It is one of the must-visit places in Bacolod for first-time travelers.

Talisay City, Negros Occidental
Entrance Fee: Adults (Php 150) | Senior/PWD (Php 100) | Students (Php 80) | Children below 8 years old (FREE)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM(DAILY)

How To Get There
Riding local public utility jeepney will be quite a hassle as the place is located far from the main road. It is recommended to hire a private car or ride an air-conditioned taxi to reach the Ruins.

2. Try Authentic Bacolod Chicken Inasal

A trip to Bacolod is incomplete without trying its famous chicken inasal. This grilled chicken dish is marinated with local spices, brushed with oil, and cooked over charcoal to create its signature smoky flavour. Popular places to enjoy chicken inasal include local eateries and famous food spots around the city. Pair it with garlic rice, sinamak (spiced vinegar), and a refreshing local drink for a true Bacolod food experience.

3. Visit San Sebastian Cathedral

San Sebastian Cathedral is one of the 19th-century church in Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. The exterior and interior structure represents its beauty and grandeur built during the Spanish era. It is located in the heart of the Bacolod which is just in front of Bacolod Public Plaza, also it is walking distance to the famous Manokan Country.

Rizal Street, Bacolod City
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM (DAILY)

4. Explore Campuestohan Highland Resort

Campuestohan Highland Resort is the most popular theme park in Bacolod, which is located 27 km from the city of Bacolod. The park offers a ride in a sky bike experience, zip line, rope course, horseback riding, hamster wheel, grand carousel, and mini train. It caters to people with different interests both young and old, and for families and friends who want to unwind and enjoy. They also have lodging houses for overnight accommodation and restaurant pavilion which serves a wide variety of foods

Sitio campuestohan Barangay, Talisay City
Entrance Fee: Php150 (Adult and Children above 2 years old)
Opening Hours: 7:00am-6:00pm (DAILY).

How To Get There
The most convenient way to reach the resort is by private car. We highly recommend availing on Klook Campuestohan Highland Resort Tour where offer private tour day package and free pickup to any hotel within Bacolod service.

5. Discover Negros Museum

The Negros Museum is a great place to learn about the history, culture, and heritage of Negros Island. Exhibits showcase the island’s sugar industry, traditional lifestyle, local art, and important historical stories. It is a recommended stop for travelers who want to understand Bacolod beyond its food and festivals.

Bacolod City Travel Guide and Itinerary

DAY 1

06:45am ETA Bacolod-Silay Airport
07:15am Head to Hotel
08:00am ETA Hotel
09:00am Head to Pickup Point
Campuestohan Resort
10:00am ETA Campuestohan Resort
12:00pm Lunch
03:00pm Depart Campuestohan
04:00pm ETA Hotel
Rest
06:00pm Dinner
Manokan Country
08:00pm Head to Calea
09:30pm Head to Hotel
Rest.Sleep

DAY 2

06:30am Wake Up.Ready
07:30am Breakfast
08:30am Head to Church
San Sebastian Cathedral
09:00am Attend Church Mass
10:30am ETD to The Ruins
11:00am ETA The Ruins
12:30pm Lunch
Back to Hotel
03:00pm Explore Downtown Bacolod
06:30pm Dinner
08:00pm Head back to Hotel
09:00pm Sleep.Rest

DAY 3

04:00am Wake Up.Ready
04:45am Check out Hotel
Bacolod Silay Airport
05:30:am ETA Bacolod Silay Airport
Check-IN
07:00am ETD Depart
07:45am Mactan-Cebu Airport
10:30am Home

Where to buy Pasalubong

BongBong’s Piaya and Baraquillos and Merzi
Our Bacolod City travel guide won’t be complete without a visit to two of the most famous pasalubong shops BongBong Piaya and Merczi. These two shops are widely known for selling the best Bacolod products such as Piaya, Baraquillos, and Napoleones. Almost in every famous street in Bacolod, we can see these local shops that are selling local food delicacies. For us, nothing beats Bong Bong’s Piaya and Butterscotch. On the other hand, Merczi Napoleones and Biscocho are our highly recommended delights.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors to Bacolod

Planning your first trip to Bacolod? The City of Smiles is an easy and enjoyable destination to explore, but a few travel tips can help you make the most of your visit.

Plan Your Trip Around the Weather
Stay for at Least 2–3 Days
Try Local Food Beyond Chicken Inasal
Use Grab or Rent a Car for Convenience
Visit Popular Attractions Early
Bring Comfortable Walking Shoes

Frequently Asked Questions About Bacolod City

What is Bacolod City famous for?
Bacolod City is famous for its warm hospitality, earning the nickname “City of Smiles.” It is best known for its delicious chicken inasal, colourful MassKara Festival, rich cultural heritage, and historic attractions such as The Ruins and heritage houses in nearby Silay City.
How many days are enough for Bacolod?
A 2 to 3-day trip is ideal for exploring Bacolod.
What are the best things to do in Bacolod City?
The best things to do in Bacolod include visiting The Ruins, exploring Bacolod’s heritage sites, trying authentic chicken inasal, visiting museums, relaxing at Capitol Lagoon Park, experiencing local markets, and enjoying the city’s famous food scene.
What food is Bacolod famous for?
Bacolod is a paradise for food lovers. The city is most famous for chicken inasal, a grilled chicken dish marinated with local spices and cooked over charcoal.
What is the best time to visit Bacolod?
The best time to visit Bacolod is from October to December, especially if you want to experience the famous MassKara Festival in October. For fewer crowds and more affordable accommodation, visiting outside major festivals is recommended.
How do you get around Bacolod City?
Getting around Bacolod is easy with taxis, Grab, jeepneys, tricycles, and rental cars. Grab is a convenient option for tourists visiting popular attractions, while renting a car is useful for exploring destinations outside the city.
Is Bacolod worth visiting?
Yes, Bacolod is worth visiting for travellers who enjoy food, culture, history, and relaxed city experiences. With its friendly locals, delicious cuisine, heritage attractions, and nearby nature destinations, Bacolod offers a unique travel experience compared to other Philippine cities

Final Thoughts

With this Bacolod City travel guide, we have visited the popular tourist landmarks such as The Ruins and Campuestohan Highland Resort. On top of that we went to dine the famous Chicken Inasal and local dessert Calea Pastries and Cake. Our trip to Bacolod was mainly to attend a friend’s wedding and at the same time to visit a close friend of ours who is currently residing in Bacolod. The three days trip was considered a somewhat short family vacation for us. Soon, we will be back to explore the wonderful city, warm culture, and delicious food. And hopefully, we can experience to travel by land with the kids but maybe not too soon because for sure they will get tired immediately to sit on the bus for long hours. We had fun and enjoyed our short trip.

Bacolod City Travel Guide:Things to Do, Food, Itinerary & Travel Tips

Why Visit Bacolod?

Where Is Bacolod city