Tacloban - Discovering Philippines

Travelling to Tacloban

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Tacloban, a pretty good destination in Philippines (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Tacloban and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Tacloban, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Philippines, here's everything to know about Tacloban for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Tacloban

Tacloban is the capital city of the province of Leyte, located in the Eastern Visayas region of the Philippines. It is nestled along the eastern coast of the island of Leyte, facing the Philippine Sea. Tacloban is famously known for being the place where General Douglas MacArthur made his return to the Philippines during World War II. Besides its rich history, Tacloban is also known for having delicious local cuisine, particularly seafood dishes, and being a hub for commerce and education in the region. Some popular tourist attractions in the area include the MacArthur Landing Memorial National Park, the Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum, and the Leyte Landing Memorial Park.

What to visit in Tacloban

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Tacloban and some information about them: 1. San Juanico Bridge: This is the longest bridge in the Philippines, stretching 2.16 kilometers from Samar Island to Leyte Island. Visitors can walk or drive across the bridge, which offers scenic views of the San Juanico Strait.
2. Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum: This museum is located in a historic mansion that was once the home of Imelda Marcos. Visitors can explore the opulent rooms and see rare artworks and antique treasures.
3. MacArthur Landing Memorial Park: This park commemorates the landing of General Douglas MacArthur and his troops during World War II. There are statues and historical markers throughout the park, as well as a scenic view of Leyte Gulf.
4. Leyte Landing Memorial: Another World War II memorial, this one honors the Filipino and American soldiers who battled on the shores of Leyte. The site includes a large monument and a museum with exhibits on the war and the history of the Philippines.
5. Tacloban City Convention Center: This modern event space hosts concerts, conferences, and other events. It's also a popular spot for taking photos, thanks to its unique design and colorful lights.
6. Balyuan Amphitheater: This outdoor venue is located in a scenic park near the bay. It's a frequent site of cultural events and performances, and a great place to relax and enjoy views of the water.
7. Price Mansion: Once the home of a wealthy Chinese merchant, this mansion is now a museum showcasing the culture and history of the Chinese community in Tacloban.
8. Sacred Heart Shrine: This Catholic shrine is located on a hill overlooking the city. It's a popular spot for prayer and meditation, and offers sweeping views of Tacloban and the surrounding countryside.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Philippines, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Tacloban

The best time to visit Tacloban is from December to April, when the weather is dry and mild. This is the peak tourist season in the Philippines, so expect big crowds and higher prices. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and don't mind a bit of rain, you can visit Tacloban during the off-peak season from May to November. This is the rainy season in the region, but the rain showers are usually short and the landscapes are lush and green. Just keep in mind that there could be potential typhoons from June to September.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Tacloban

The easiest way to get to Tacloban, Philippines is by plane. There are several airlines that have direct flights to Tacloban Airport (TAC), including Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia. Alternatively, you can also take a ferry from Manila to Tacloban. There are several shipping companies operating this route, such as 2GO Travel, Roble Shipping, and Cokaliong Shipping Lines. However, this mode of transportation can take up to 24 hours or longer, depending on the weather and sea condition. Lastly, you can take a bus from Manila to Tacloban. The bus journey takes around 24 hours and there are several bus companies operating this route, such as Philtranco and DLTB.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Tacloban, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tacloban

Here are some typical foods of Tacloban in the Philippines, along with short descriptions: 1. Binagol: It's a native sweet delicacy made from grated taro corm mixed with condensed milk, sugar, and vanilla flavor and peanut butter. It is then wrapped in a coconut shell and baked in an oven.
2. Moron: This is a native delicacy made of sweet glutinous rice combined with chocolate, wrapped in a banana leaf, and steamed.
3. Suman: A popular native delicacy of glutinous rice wrapped in banana leaves, often served with Batuan sauce.
4. Calamansi Juice: This refreshing drink is made from the calamansi fruit, a small citrus fruit native to the Philippines. It is often served as a refreshing drink during meals.
5. Adobo: A common dish in the Philippines known for its salty, savory and tangy taste. It is usually prepared with pork meat, which is marinated in a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns.
6. Leyte Kinilaw: This is a fish dish native to Leyte that uses vinegar, ginger, onion, and coconut milk to cook the fish.
7. Binagatan: A tasty seafood dish made with mixed seafood (usually crab, shrimp, mussels) cooked with coconut milk, vegetables, and a bit of spice.
I hope you find this helpful!
You can find general info about typical foods in Philippines here.

Is Tacloban an expensive destination for tourists?

Tacloban is typically an affordable destination for tourists compared to other popular tourist destinations in the Philippines. Accommodation options range from budget to mid-range, with prices varying depending on location and amenities offered. Food and drink prices at local restaurants are also generally affordable. However, expenses can add up if you plan to do tourist activities such as island hopping or hiring a private vehicle for sightseeing. It is recommended to plan your budget accordingly and do some research to find the best deals on accommodations and tours.

Where to find accomodation in Tacloban

The best areas to find accommodation when visiting Tacloban would be in the downtown area and nearby. There are plenty of hotels and guesthouses available in this area, with easy access to restaurants, shopping destinations, and tourist attractions. Another good option would be to find accommodation in the outskirts of the city, where there are several beach resorts and hotels available. These areas offer a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those looking for a more laid-back vacation experience.
You can check hotel prices at Tacloban here:
Booking.com

Is Tacloban a safe destination for tourists?

Tacloban is a generally safe place for tourists, but like any city, there are common safety precautions you should take. It is important to be alert when walking around and keep an eye on your valuables. Additionally, it is advisable to stick to well-lit areas and avoid walking alone at night. It is always a good idea to research your destination beforehand and understand any cultural norms or customs that may be unfamiliar to you. Overall, Tacloban is a beautiful place and with appropriate caution and preparation, visitors should have a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Philippines here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Tacloban.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tacloban the most?

Tacloban in the Philippines has something to offer for everyone, from couples to families and young people. Here are some activities that each type of traveler might enjoy in Tacloban: - Couples: Tacloban is perfect for couples looking for a romantic getaway. The city has beautiful beaches, such as San Juanico Bridge and Cancabato Bay, where you can enjoy a stunning sunset with your loved one. You can also take a romantic stroll in the historic Leyte Landing Memorial Park.
- Young people: Tacloban offers a wide range of activities for young people. You can party at the city's nightclubs or hang out at the bars. For adventure seekers, the city offers many outdoor activities such as diving, surfing, and hiking at various scenic locations.
- Families: Tacloban has many family-friendly attractions, including the Sto. Niño Shrine and Heritage Museum, where you can learn about the history and culture of the region. You can also take a boat ride and watch dolphins at the nearby islands of Maripipi and Sambawan. The city also has many parks such as Kanhuraw Hill Natural Park, where children can play and enjoy nature.
Overall, Tacloban is a great destination for all types of travelers with its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and various activities.

How to get around Tacloban

In Tacloban, you can move around by tricycle or Jeepney, which are both commonly used modes of transportation in the Philippines. You can also opt to ride a taxi or a van for a more comfortable but pricier option. Additionally, you may also rent a motorcycle or bike if you want more control and flexibility in your itinerary. Overall, choosing the right type of transportation will depend on your budget, comfort level, and travel needs.

What to see around Tacloban

Here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Tacloban: 1. San Juanico Bridge - Take a scenic drive across the longest bridge in the Philippines and marvel at the stunning view of San Juanico Strait.
2. Sohoton Natural Bridge National Park - Explore the underground caves, enchanting lagoons and spot wildlife at this national park.
3. Calicoan Island - Bask in the sun and enjoy various water sports activities such as surfing, kayaking, and scuba diving at this island paradise.
4. Cuatro Islas - Visit the four beautiful islands of Digyo, Apid, Mahaba, and Himokilan for some beach hopping, snorkeling, and island hopping.
5. Biliran Island - Take a dip at the stunning hot and cold springs, visit the Sambawan Island, Tinago Falls and marvel at the wonderful scenery in this charming island.
6. Guiuan - Explore the town and visit the Guiuan Church, a historical landmark that survived the super typhoon Yolanda.
7. Leyte Landing Memorial Park - Learn about the historic landing of General Douglas MacArthur in Leyte during World War II and pay your respects at the memorial park.
8. Palo Cathedral - Admire the beautiful architecture of this centuries-old cathedral and learn about its role in Philippine history.
There are many other places to explore in the region surrounding Tacloban, but these are some of the most popular day trip destinations.
For every travel information about Philippines you can click here.

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