Bacolod, the City of Smiles, beckons travelers to explore its rich cultural tapestry through a private tour that delves into the city’s historic landmarks and vibrant atmosphere. This comprehensive 9-hour excursion promises an immersive experience, guiding visitors through iconic sites like the San Sebastian Cathedral and the Bacolod Public Plaza. With air-conditioned transport, an English-speaking guide, and inclusions such as lunch and entrance fees, the tour ensures a hassle-free journey. However, prospective participants should note that the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility impairments, as it involves significant walking on uneven terrain. Intrigued by the prospect of discovering Bacolod’s treasures? Let’s dive deeper into the tour’s highlights and what it has to offer.
This experience made our list of the 3 Best Tours In Bacolod.
Key Points
- This private 9-hour tour of Bacolod and Silay offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s iconic landmarks, historic architecture, and cultural heritage.
- The tour includes round-trip transportation, an English-speaking guide, entrance fees, and a complimentary lunch, providing a hassle-free experience.
- Highlights of the tour include the San Sebastian Cathedral, Bacolod Public Plaza, Silay’s ancestral houses, and the Ruins in Talisay.
- However, the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments due to the significant walking and uneven terrain involved.
- Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the comprehensive exploration of Bacolod’s culture and history.
Tour Overview
The Bacolod Tour offers visitors a private, 9-hour exploration of the City of Smiles. Priced from $133.16 per person, the tour includes an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and complimentary pickup from the city town proper between 8:30 and 8:45 AM.
Guests can freely cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and a reserve now, pay later option is available. The tour’s itinerary highlights iconic landmarks like the San Sebastian Cathedral, Bacolod Public Plaza, Provincial Capitol Building, and the ancestral houses of Silay.
Lunch, entrance fees, and tips are all covered, making this an inclusive and convenient way to experience the best of Bacolod. However, the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility impairments.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Bacolod.
Itinerary Highlights
The tour’s itinerary highlights some of Bacolod’s iconic landmarks and historic sites. Guests will visit the nineteenth-century San Sebastian Cathedral, a Roman Catholic church known for its distinct architecture.
They’ll explore the Bacolod Public Plaza and Bandstand, a hub for community gatherings. The tour also includes stops at the Provincial Capitol Building and Lagoon, Millionaires Row, and the New Government Center.
In Silay, visitors will see the Pro Cathedral, Hofilena House, and the Jalandoni Pink House. A running tour of Silay’s ancestral houses provides a glimpse into the city’s rich history.
Included in the Tour
Included in the tour are air-conditioned transportation, a Dot Accredited Guide, and all entrance fees.
The guide will provide live commentary in English, sharing insights and historical facts about the sights along the way.
Lunch is also included, ensuring visitors can refuel during the day-long excursion.
Tipping for the guide and any other service providers is covered, so guests can relax and fully enjoy the Bacolod experience.
The tour is designed to be comprehensive, allowing visitors to explore the city’s key landmarks, historic homes, and natural wonders without worrying about logistics or additional expenses.
Not Suitable For
Individuals with mobility impairments may find this tour challenging, as it involves navigating through historic sites and ancestral homes that may have limited accessibility features.
The tour requires a significant amount of walking, often on uneven terrain and stairs, which could pose difficulties for those with limited mobility.
Plus, some of the buildings visited may not have elevators or wheelchair-friendly entrances, making it challenging for individuals who rely on mobility aids.
While the tour operator aims to accommodate all guests, they caution that the tour may not be the best fit for those with significant mobility constraints.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyImportant Information
Comfortable shoes are recommended for this tour, as it involves navigating through historic sites and ancestral homes that may have uneven terrain and stairs.
Guests should also avoid bringing alcohol and drugs, as these items aren’t allowed during the tour. The tour company emphasizes the importance of responsible behavior to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.
Plus, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, as some of the destinations may present accessibility challenges.
Participants are advised to dress appropriately and be prepared for the day’s activities, which will provide a comprehensive exploration of Bacolod’s rich cultural heritage.
City of Smiles
Bacolod, often referred to as the "City of Smiles," is a vibrant and welcoming hub in the Philippines known for its rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality.
Visitors can expect to be captivated by the city’s charming colonial architecture, lively public spaces, and the friendly demeanor of its residents.
Some of the highlights include:
- Exploring the historic San Sebastian Cathedral, a stunning 19th-century Roman Catholic church.
- Strolling through the Bacolod Public Plaza and Bandstand, a hub for community events and gatherings.
- Admiring the grandeur of the Provincial Capitol Building and Lagoon, as well as the opulent Millionaires Row and New Government Center.
Ancestral Houses of Silay
Beyond Bacolod’s vibrant city center, the picturesque town of Silay offers a unique glimpse into the area’s rich architectural heritage.
The tour includes a running visit of the town’s ancestral houses, showcasing well-preserved examples of Spanish colonial and early American-era structures.
These elegant mansions, some dating back to the late 19th century, feature intricate designs, ornate facades, and lush tropical gardens.
Visitors can admire the attention to detail and craftsmanship that defined the lifestyle of the region’s affluent families.
This insight into Silay’s past provides a captivating contrast to the modern developments observed elsewhere in the tour, offering a well-rounded understanding of Bacolod’s diverse cultural tapestry.
The Ruins in Talisay
The Ruins in Talisay stand as a poignant testament to the region’s tumultuous past. This grand, neoclassical mansion once belonged to a prominent sugar baron family, until it was devastatingly destroyed by fire during World War II.
Today, the skeletal remains of this architectural marvel draw visitors from far and wide to marvel at its haunting beauty.
The highlights of the Ruins include:
- The towering façade and imposing columns that hint at the structure’s former grandeur
- The lush, overgrown gardens that have reclaimed the grounds, creating a serene, almost otherworldly ambiance
- The opportunity to explore the echoes of the past, imagining the lavish parties and family gatherings that once took place within these walls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary?
Yes, the tour can be customized to the traveler’s preferences. The tour provider offers flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on the visitor’s interests and needs, ensuring a personalized experience.
Do You Offer Any Discounts for Groups or Children?
Yes, the tour provider offers discounted group rates for parties of 3 or more. Plus, children under 12 receive a 20% discount on the tour price.
Can I Request a Specific Language for the Tour Guide?
Yes, you can request a specific language for the tour guide. The provider offers live tour guides in English, and they may be able to accommodate other language requests if available, depending on your preferences and the group size.
Are There Any Dietary Restrictions for the Included Lunch?
The tour includes a provided lunch, but the website doesn’t specify any dietary restrictions. Travelers with dietary needs should contact the tour provider to discuss any accommodations for the meal.
What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?
The tour has a flexible cancellation policy – customers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. There is also a reserve now, pay later option available.
Recap
The Bacolod Private Tour offers an immersive exploration of the city’s rich cultural heritage, featuring iconic sites and vibrant local experiences. However, the tour may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues due to the significant walking on uneven terrain. Travelers can expect air-conditioned transport, an English-speaking guide, lunch, and entrance fees, ensuring a hassle-free and comprehensive discovery of Bacolod’s historical treasures.
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