When you hear “Tacloban City,” most people instantly think of the San Juanico Bridge—one of the longest bridges in the Philippines. But this resilient city in Eastern Visayas has so much more to offer—from rich war history to cultural treasures, natural attractions, and some of the most heartwarming food and people you’ll ever experience.
If you're planning a trip to Leyte, let this guide help you discover how to get to Tacloban City, where to stay, the best places to eat, and the must-see sights that prove this city is far more than just a stopover.
How to Get to Tacloban
The easiest way to reach Tacloban is by air travel, and AirAsia offers daily affordable flights from Manila to Tacloban (Daniel Z. Romualdez Airport). The flight takes just about 1 hour and 20 minutes, making it a convenient jump-off point to Eastern Visayas.
Tip: Watch out for AirAsia seat sales and promos! You can often score roundtrip fares for under ₱2,000.
Once you land, Tacloban's compact city layout makes it easy to navigate. Public utility vans, jeepneys, tricycles, and car rentals are readily available from the airport to the city center.
Top Tourist Spots in Tacloban City You Shouldn’t Miss
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| San Juanico Bridge |
1. San Juanico Bridge
One of the longest bridges in the Philippines, it's best visited during sunrise or sunset for stunning views.
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| MacArthur Park |
2. MacArthur Landing Memorial Park (Palo, Leyte)
Pay homage to World War II history at the exact spot where General Douglas MacArthur fulfilled his promise: “I shall return.”
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| M/V Eva Jocelyn Yolanda Memorial |
3. M/V Eva Jocelyn Yolanda Memorial
A large cargo ship washed inland by Typhoon Yolanda, preserved as a haunting yet powerful reminder of Tacloban’s resilience.
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| Leyte Provincial Capitol |
4. Leyte Provincial Capitol
A beautiful American-era neoclassical structure that served as Gen. MacArthur’s HQ during WWII.
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| Santo Niño Church |
5. Santo Niño Church & Rizal Park
Right in the heart of the city—perfect for those who love old churches and open plazas.
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| Kalanggaman Island |
6. Kalanggaman Island Day Trip (via Palompon)
Take a side trip to this dreamy sandbar paradise just 3-4 hours away from Tacloban. It’s a favorite among backpackers and island hoppers!
Pro Tip: Don’t leave Tacloban without trying Pansit Cabagan, Binagol, and Moron—Leyte’s iconic native delicacies.
Where to Stay in Tacloban
Top Hotels in Tacloban
7. The Tropics Hotel and Resort (formerly The Oriental Hotel and Resort)
Tacloban City isn’t just about history and heartbreak—it’s a living, breathing city full of stories, strength, and soul. It’s a place that has risen from the strongest of storms and opened its arms wide to travelers who want to connect, explore, and rediscover the heart of the Leyte's culture.
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