Excursion Historical vigan by kalesa tour at Currimao

Explore the history, architecture, and charm of Vigan during this bespoke, half-day sightseeing excursion via coach, horse-drawn kalesa, and on-foot.

Vigan, Bantay Church & Tower, Plaza Salcedo, Colonial Buildings, St. Paul’s Cathedral

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 70 minutes drive to the historic Bantay Church and Tower. Upon arrival, take a guided tour of this wonderful landmark, marvel at its architectural splendour, and immerse yourself in the stories of centuries past. Afterward, re-board your coach and head to Plaza Salcedo. This bustling square serves as the heart of Vigan. Plaza Salcedo is surrounded by colonial-era landmarks such as St. Paul’s Cathedral and Calle Crisologo, and reflects the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Horse-Drawn Carriage-Ride, Ancestral Homes, Hidden Courtyards, Local Landmarks

Next, proceed for the highlight of your Vigan adventure, a leisurely, approximately one-hour-ride aboard a traditional kalesa (horse-drawn carriage) around the cobblestone streets of Vigan. Relax in the horse-drawn carriage as you soak in the enchanting atmosphere, passing by well-preserved ancestral homes, hidden courtyards, and local landmarks that reveal the city's Spanish-colonial influence. Your kalesa journey concludes at Calle Crisologo, an UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Calle Crisologo, Free Time, Spanish-Era Architecture, Antique & Souvenir Shoppes, Local Eateries

Calle Crisologo is famous for its well-preserved, Spanish-era architecture and truly captures the essence of Vigan. Upon arrival, ample free time is made available to explore Calle Crisologo's atmospheric surroundings. Along the way, you can browse its charming antique shoppes and souvenir stalls, indulge in local specialities, and soak in the unique ambiance of this iconic street.

Re-board the coach and indulge in an authentic Filipino and Ilocano lunch at Hidden Garden Restaurant.

At the conclusion of your visit, re-board your coach and commence the approximately 90-minutes drive back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Vigan, Bantay Church & Tower, Plaza Salcedo, Horse-Drawn Carriage-Ride, Colonial Buildings, Ancestral Homes, Courtyards, Calle Crisologo, Free Time, Shopping, local lunch

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount of walking for approximately 0.60 miles (about 0.95 kilometres), at times over uneven, cobblestone, and natural surfaces, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and horse-drawn carriage. This tour is not suitable for guests prone to motion sickness, guests with limited mobility, and guests who utilise a wheelchair. Guests are advised to wear lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes, and bring sun protection, insect repellent, umbrella, bottled water, and local currency or credit cards for purchases from the ship; most of the shoppes in Calle Crisologo accept cash only. Please dress conservatively when going ashore. As a rule, women should never wear anything remotely revealing (miniskirts, shorts, capris, beachwear, and sleeveless or low-cut tops), and men should always wear shirts and trousers in public. Proper attire is required to enter religious sites; shorts and bare shoulders are not permitted. Shoes must be removed prior to entering the temples; we suggest bringing along a pair of thick socks, because the pavement may be very hot. Guests must be at least 5 years old to participate on this tour; minors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian over 18 years old.Infrastructure in Salomague may be basic, and local conditions may be challenging; coaches, guides, hotels, restaurants, equipment, and services are the best-available in the area, but may not be up to the standards of those found on other ports. Therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique, less touristic destinations. The cost of providing a tour programme in this area is proportionately more expensive than in neighbouring regions, as vehicles and guides are brought in from the whole region. This may be reflected in the prices of the tours, and we thank you for your understanding. For your added safety and protection, please leave jewellery, valuables, and large amounts of cash on board the ship. Guests should be respectful towards local sentiments and customs. The driving time between the pier and sites visited is approximately 70-90 minutes in each direction. The tour sequence may vary.