A trip to Pampanga would often mean going on a food trip and this is probably why most travelers would just stop by Pampanga and overlook that there are a lot of exciting things to do, sights to see and places to visit that makes it a worthy destination for your next trip!
Ian James Sigua, a content creator, surfer and a proud Kapampangan took us around his beautiful hometown together with Aisela Travel Leisure Corporation to discover 7 fun things to do in Pampanga!
Photo by Ivan Lantin
- Reach for the sky and fly an ultralight plane!
Photo by Waltz Siy
It’s not everyday that you can experience feeling like a pilot for a day! The Angeles City Flying Club makes this possible as you can get flying lessons from their professional pilots or you can simply sit back and enjoy the flight as a passenger, either way the view will be breathtaking!
Photo by Ivan Lantin
- Unleash your badass side and try firing a rifle
Photo by Lucky Alabado
Have you always wanted to learn firing a real gun for self-defense purposes or just out of sheer curiosity? If it’s your first time, we recommend going to the Mountain Clark Firing Range where you can try handling a real gun and shoot targets at a safe environment.
Photos of Mountain Clark Firing Range by Lucky Alabado
- Immerse yourself with the rich culture and heritage of Pampanga
Photo of old San Fernando train station by Lucky Alabado
Walk back in time and get to know more about the rich history of Pampanga through the numerous heritage landmarks you’ll find in the city.
Arnedo House where Rizal stayed
Photo by Lucky Alabado
The Salakot Arch
Photo by Ivan Lantin
American Barnhouses
Photo by Ivan Lantin
Pamintuan Mansion
Photo by Ivan Lantin
Heritage Houses along A.Consunji Street
Photo by Ivan Lantin
San Fernando Train Station
Photo by Lucky Alabado
30th SEA Games Symbol
Photo by Ivan Lantin
- Visit the beautiful historical churches
Photo by Ivan Lantin
Pampanga is home to many beautiful and historical churches in the Philippines that date back to Spanish times. Most of these churches are even named as national cultural treasures due to their history and beauty. You’ll be surprised at how interesting each church is with it’s own unique story to tell.
San Pedro Apostol Church in Apalit
Photo by Ivan Lantin
Holy Rosary Parish Church in Angeles
Photo by Ivan Lantin
Santa Monica Parish in Minalin
Photo by Ivan Lantin
Metropolitan Cathedral of San Fernando
Photo by Waltz Siy
San Guillermo Parish Church in Bacolor also known as “The Sunken Church”
Photo by Ivan Lantin
San Bartolome Church in Magalang
Photo by Ivan Lantin
St. James the Apostle Parish Church of Guagua — “The Sistine Chapel of the Philippines”
Photo by Lucky Alabado
- The Arts and Crafts
Photo by Ivan Lantin
Find world-class furniture and religious icons made by local woodcarvers (mandukit) from Betis and giant colorful lanterns by craftsmen from all over Pampanga.
Photo by Lucky Alabado
Here you’ll see world-renowned sculptor, Willy Layug’s exceptional works in person.
Photo by Lucky Alabado
- Relax and unwind at Abe’s Farm
Photos of Abe’s Farm by Ivan Lantin
Disconnect from the busy city life, connect with nature and unwind at Abe’s Farm while enjoying their delicious Kapampangan food offerings. You’ll feel instantly rejuvenated after pampering yourself at their spa and staying for a day at their beautifully designed rooms with traditional Filipino and Balinese themes.
Photo by Ivan Lantin
Photo by Ivan Lantin
- Stuff your bellies with yummy Kapampangan Food!
Photo by Ivan Lantin
This one is a no-brainer so we saved it for last. Dubbed as “The Culinary Capital of the Philippines” you know that the food experience here will be amazing! A trip to Pampanga will not be complete without trying the original classic pork sisig. If you have an adventurous tastebud, try out exotic Kapampangan dishes like the Betute (Stuffed Frog), Buro and Camaru (Crickets). Whatever you’re craving for, you’ll surely find something to satisfy your appetite in Pampanga.
Angeles Fried Chicken — As their tagline says, “Where Chicken tastes Heavenly!” and we totally agree!
Photo by Lucky Alabado
Café Fleur & 25 Seeds — Kapampangan dishes with a French flair by Chef Sau
Photo by Lucky Alabado
Jun Jun’s Bibingka & Barbeque Restaurant
Photo by Lucky Alabado
Apag Marangle — Home of authentic and exotic Kapampangan dishes
Photo by Lucky Alabado
Aling Lucing’s Sisig — The OG Sisig Queen of Pampanga and one of the best places to eat Sisig
Photo by Lucky Alabado
Mila’s Tokwa’t Baboy and Sisig — Also a top contender for the best places to eat sisig in Pampanga
Photo by Lucky Alabado
L.A. Bakeshop — Their famous freshly baked cheesebread is a must!
Photo by Lucky Alabado
Razon’s of Guagua — Ultimate merienda combo: The Halo-halo and Pancit Lug-lug with Puto on the side
Photo by Lucky Alabado
Guagua Burgos Plaza — Street food galore!
Photo by Ivan Lantin
Where to Stay:
Photo by Waltz Siy
There are a lot of accommodation options in Pampanga but we stayed at The Lewis Grand Hotel during our trip. We liked the modest luxury of the place, the friendly staff and convenient location.
Photo by Ivan Lantin
Are you convinced to visit Pampanga soon? Book your flights now via Clark with Cebu Pacific Air and get ready to experience Pampanga beyond food!
If you’re coming from Manila, we recommend booking your tours with Aisela Travel Leisure Corporation for an extraordinary, comfortable and memorable holiday customized just for you! (Check out our ride!)
Photo by Ivan Lantin
Special thanks to Ian James Sigua for taking his time to personally accompany us for this trip.
Photo by Ivan Lantin
Follow the visual stories at #DiscoverMNLxCebuPacific #ExplorewithAisela
Words by Zyllah Gatchalian – Taberdo
Thanks for sharing! I’d love to go on a pampanga road trip someday when all is settled here in the Philippines.