Transportation in Vigan is a unique experience, as the city is known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and traditional Ilocano culture. To get to Vigan from the surrounding main cities in the Philippines, one can take a bus or a plane to Laoag City and then take another bus to Vigan. The bus ride from Manila to Laoag City takes around 8 to 10 hours and costs around PHP 600 to PHP 800 (approximately $12 to $16 USD), while a plane ride takes around 1 hour and costs around PHP 3,000 to PHP 4,000 (approximately $60 to $80 USD). From Laoag City, the bus ride to Vigan takes around 2 hours and costs around PHP 150 to PHP 200 (approximately $3 to $4 USD).
Once in Vigan, the best way to move around the city is by renting a tricycle, which is a three-wheeled vehicle that can accommodate up to four people. A tricycle ride around the city costs around PHP 30 to PHP 50 (approximately $0.60 to $1 USD) per person. Another option is to take a kalesa, which is a horse-drawn carriage, for a more traditional and romantic experience. A kalesa ride around the city costs around PHP 300 to PHP 500 (approximately $6 to $10 USD) per hour.
The ease and cost of transportation in Vigan are relatively low, as the city is small and compact, making it easy to navigate by foot or by tricycle. Additionally, the city is relatively safe, with a low crime rate. However, as with any place, it is always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Overall, transportation in Vigan is an easy and affordable way to explore this charming and historic city. With a variety of options available, from buses and planes to tricycles and kalesas, visitors to Vigan can easily get around and experience the city’s unique culture and history.
