The Best Hotels in Iloilo City, the Philippines

Peering from the peak of the tallest building in the Western Visayas, guests breakfasting at Injap Tower can spot the sights of Iloilo City. Tuck into a plate of fresh pancakes while mapping the spires of the city’s historic churches. With an on-site spa, pool and gym, this hotel breaks the pace of city life beyond its doorstep. Rooms are simple and clean, ready for you to sink into after a day of sightseeing.

Amidst the hustle of Iloilo City’s central business park, respite waits behind the wide windows of the Courtyard by Marriott. With bamboo walls and light marble floors, the bright interior is a welcome contrast to the busy city outside. Panoramic views can be caught from the edge of the rooftop pool or spied over the rim of an ice-cold beer at the adjacent bar.

Zuri Hotel’s rooftop infinity pool stretches to the city skyline, only intercepted by the jutting black marble of the waterside bar. The entryway is equally glamorous, with a glittering chandelier, draped from the lobby’s ivory ceiling. Spacious rooms feature king-sized beds while the rooftop is the best place to watch the sunset.

Down in the heart of Iloilo City Proper, you’ll find the Harbor Town Hotel. Dodge the shoppers, workers and karaoke enthusiasts, and you’ll find a peaceful scene in the hotel reception. Soak away the aches from exploring the city at the onsite spa. For dinner, feast on siopao (steamed dumplings) and freshly-crisped lechon (pork belly) from the best restaurants in the city, found right on the doorstep.

A practical place to stay in Iloilo, Days Hotel is located at the centre of the city, inside a mall. This is super convenient, especially if you have kids, as there’s a supermarket, pharmacy and food court right outside. Complimentary buffet breakfast as well as access to the gym and sauna is included with your stay – upgrade to the jacuzzi suite for in-room pampering. For dinner, you can head upstairs to The Promenade restaurant for a simple evening meal.

Escape the hustle and bustle in this relaxing, seemingly remote hideout. Urban Sands boasts a total of 11 rooms, all of which have the luxury of being located poolside. Enjoy a traditional Filipino breakfast, delivered to your room – or head to the onsite restaurants for Western classics such as pork back ribs and southern chicken. The staff here are incredibly helpful, too.

Located in San Rafael, one of the newest hubs in Iloilo, Seda Atria offers modern accommodation within easy striking distance of downtown. It’s clean and modern with smart bedrooms, range from deluxe rooms to suites. Start your day in the gym or swimming laps of the pool and finish with a cold beer in the rooftop bar. The breakfast buffet is top-notch with an egg station, bacon, pastries and fruit. It’s also adjacent to the Atria Mall with easy access to its restaurant and shops.

Spend at least one night in an ancestral house while staying in Iloilo. Built in the 1920s, Casa Tentay – named after the owner’s grandmother – has a variety of simple double, twin and quadruple rooms, making it an excellent stay for groups or families. Each room has a patio or a balcony, free wifi and a flat-screen TV. Located in Jaro district, Casa Tentay is a few minutes from Jaro Cathedral and Casa Mariquit.

Visitors are drawn to the super modern Richmonde for its pristine rooftop pool with panoramic views. Head up to the poolside bar to watch the sunset with a mojito in hand. Rooms are spacious and luxurious with 300-thread count sheets, soft duvets, and duck-feather pillows. There’s also a state-of-the-art fitness centre, plus secure covered parking beneath the hotel. It’s no wonder locals come here for an upscale staycation.

Operating since 1965, Hotel del Rio sits along Iloilo River, offering direct river views from selected rooms. Upgrade to the presidential suite, which has the largest balcony and its very own jacuzzi. Escape the tropical heat with a dip in the outdoor pool; poolside service means you don’t even have to leave your lounger to order an ice cold beer.