Things To Do
in Calasiao
Calasiao is a small, heritage-rich town in Pangasinan known for its iconic Puto Calasiao and friendly markets. Nestled inland from the Lingayen Gulf, it offers a calm base for exploring rural Pangasinian life and easy day trips to nearby Dagupan. The town plaza, churches, and riverfront walks reveal a welcoming, slower-paced vibe.
Visitors can enjoy a mix of traditional cuisine, cultural sights, and easy access to coastal and mountain landscapes nearby.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Calasiao and check into your accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local eatery, sampling traditional dishes such as longganisa and pandisal. Take a short stroll around the nearby market to immerse yourself in the local culture and see the vibrant scenes of daily life.
Visit the iconic Calasiao Church and appreciate its stunning architecture and serene atmosphere. Spend time exploring the nearby parks or relaxing in a café, savoring local snacks. Engage with friendly locals who can share stories and insights about the town's history.
Dine at a popular local restaurant, tasting specialties like puto and dinuguan. Attend a local event or street fair if available, enjoying music, dance, and community spirit. Wind down with a peaceful walk under the stars, taking in the calm ambiance of the town.
Start your day with a guided tour of the Calasiao Pottery, learning about the traditional art of making pottery that dates back centuries. Participate in a pottery workshop and create your own piece to take home as a souvenir. Enjoy a light breakfast nearby with options like fresh fruits and local pastries.
Explore the nearby Malong Festival Museum and discover the rich cultural heritage of Calasiao. Engage with local artisans and witness live demonstrations of weaving and craftsmanship. Relish a hearty lunch, perhaps with local lechon, which the region is renowned for.
After a day filled with culture, enjoy dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the town. Experience local entertainment, such as traditional dance performances or folk music. Conclude your evening with a relaxing walk through the town center, immersing yourself in the nighttime charm.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚌Local transport ride | $1-3 |
| 🍡Street snacks | $0.5-2 |
| 🍽️Dinner for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed town vibe with easy access to markets and local cuisine
- Good base for day trips to nearby attractions like Dagupan and Hundred Islands
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Some attractions require car or bus travel and a bit of driving
- "Kamusta po?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Magkano?" - How much?
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Oo/Hindi" - Yes/No
- "Walang anuman" - You're welcome
Places to Visit in Calasiao
Visit one of these nice places.
A central square with the town church spire and morning light reflecting on stone paths.
Flat, emerald fields on the outskirts provide wide horizons and atmospheric sunsets.
Calm riverfront views with boats and fishermen during golden hour.
Close-up opportunities of the iconic rice cake as it cools, with warm textures and colors.
Food in Calasiao
Calasiao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A famous soft, sweet rice cake from Calasiao; best enjoyed fresh from local stalls and bakeries.
Must-Try!
Marinated milkfish fried to a crisp; a staple in Pangasinan households and markets.
Grilled milkfish served with tangy dips; a common street and restaurant dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning market with fresh seafood, vegetables, and local snacks; try warm puto and crispy snacks.
Nearby night markets offering fried snacks, barbeque, and halo-halo; a quick bite of local flavors after sundown.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a warm smile and use polite terms like po when addressing elders.
Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches and markets.
Request permission before photographing people, especially in intimate settings.
Safety
Tipping in Calasiao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; small tips (5-10%) for good service at restaurants if a service charge is not included.
Cash is widely accepted; many establishments also accept credit/debit cards in larger towns. Digital wallets are increasingly common in cities.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with strong sun; plan outdoor shoots and activities for early mornings or late afternoons.
Frequent showers and possible floods in low-lying areas; carry a compact umbrella and check weather forecasts.
Milder temperatures with higher humidity and pleasant evenings; great for outdoor exploring and photography.
Calasiao at Night
Hiking in Calasiao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A nearby hiking trail in Balungao, Pangasinan offering a challenging climb and scenic viewpoints.
Boat-accessed islets with gentle hikes and viewpoints; best combined with island hopping from Alaminos.
Airports
How to reach Calasiao by plane.
Major international and domestic flights; from Clark you can drive or take a bus to Calasiao.
Manila's main hub; road and rail connections to Pangasinan towns are frequent though travel times can be long.
Northern Pangasinan option; farther away but connected via road networks.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in the area with its own language and cultural practices.
A significant minority due to historical migration; many residents understand Ilocano as well as Pangasinan and Tagalog.
Tagalog-speaking residents and small Chinese-Filipino communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in the Philippines, widely played in schools and communities.
Local gyms and events often feature boxing practice and matches.
Common in parks, schools, and community centers as a leisure sport.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Calasiao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can navigate by choosing vegetable dishes, tofu options, and requesting no fish sauce; communicate dietary needs in Filipino or English.