Things To Do
in Tarlac City
Tarlac City is a bustling urban center located in the province of Tarlac in the Philippines. It serves as the capital of the province and is known for its vibrant culture and rich history. The city is home to various historical landmarks, such as the Aquino Center and Museum, which honor the legacy of the prominent Aquino family.
With a mix of traditional and modern amenities, Tarlac City offers residents and visitors a unique blend of urban living and cultural experiences.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $70
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $10
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.20 - $0.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Tarlac Heritage Foundation to learn about local history. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café that serves traditional Filipino food.
Head to the Luisita Golf and Country Club for a leisurely round of golf or simply enjoy the lush green surroundings. Try local street food from vendors near the area for lunch.
Relax at a local park and take a stroll while enjoying the sunset. Dine at a restaurant that serves authentic Kapampangan cuisine.
Visit the Mount Pinatubo Crater Lake and take a guided trek to witness its breathtaking views. Pack some snacks for a light picnic by the lake.
Begin your descent and enjoy lunch at a local eatery, savoring regional flavors. Spend the afternoon at the Tarlac Eco-Park, where you can zip-line or hike.
Return to Tarlac City and relax at your accommodation. Enjoy dinner at a casual dining spot that offers local delicacies.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history
- Accessible location with good transport links
- Affordable cost of living
- Diverse local cuisine
- Natural attractions such as Mount Pinatubo and other scenic spots
- Occasional traffic congestion in urban areas
- Limited job opportunities in certain sectors
- Vulnerable to natural disasters like typhoons and floods
- Higher crime rates in some neighborhoods
- Inconsistent public services and infrastructure development
Best Activities in Tarlac City
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Tarlac City offers a range of mountains and hiking trails, such as Mount Damas and Tarlac Ecotourism Adventure, ideal for adventure seekers.
There are several camping sites in Tarlac City, providing an opportunity to immerse in the beauty of nature and enjoy the serene surroundings.
Explore the picturesque Anao Waterfalls and indulge in a refreshing trekking experience, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tarlac City with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tarlac City
Visit one of these nice places.
A hilltop monastery with a 30-foot statue of the Risen Christ, offering panoramic views of the city.
Home to the Capas National Shrine and the Dambana ng Kagitingan, providing historic and scenic views.
A vast park with a lake, gardens, and scenic spots, offering beautiful natural views and photo opportunities.
A bridge offering a unique vantage point for capturing the surrounding landscapes and rural life.
A sprawling sugar plantation with scenic fields and landscapes, perfect for capturing rural charm and natural beauty.
Food in Tarlac City
Tarlac City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory dish often considered the Filipino version of paella, made with glutinous rice, coconut milk, turmeric, and various meats and seafood. It's commonly found in local eateries and food stalls around Tarlac City.
Must-Try!
A traditional fermented rice dish mixed with shrimp or fish, often enjoyed as a condiment or side dish. It's a unique delicacy found in local markets and home-cooked meals.
A native kakanin (rice cake) made of ground rice, coconut milk, and a variety of fillings such as chicken, peanuts, and eggs, wrapped in a banana leaf. It's a popular snack widely available in the city's food establishments.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tarlac City better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The bustling public market is a treasure trove of local flavors, offering a wide array of fresh produce, meats, and street food. Visitors can sample grilled skewers, fried fish, and an assortment of traditional snacks here.
This food stall, located along a popular street food strip, is renowned for its sizzling sisig — a savory and slightly spicy dish made from chopped pig's face and liver. It's a must-try for those seeking an authentic street food experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tarlac City, it is important to show respect for elders by using respectful language and gestures, and by being attentive to their needs and opinions.
When visiting Tarlac City, it is important to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when entering religious or traditional places.
Bringing small gifts when visiting someone's home in Tarlac City is a sign of appreciation and respect for the host.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tarlac City with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tarlac City
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tarlac City, tipping is not a common practice but is appreciated in restaurants, spas, and taxi services. A tip of 5-10% of the total bill is customary, but it is not mandatory.
The typical payment methods in Tarlac City include cash, credit/debit cards, and in some establishments, mobile payment apps. It's important to carry sufficient cash in rural areas as not all places may accept cards. Some larger establishments may accept international credit cards, but it's always best to check beforehand.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tarlac City.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Tarlac City is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. Expect clear, sunny weather and minimal rainfall, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
The wet season, from May to October, brings heavy rains and occasional typhoons. While the landscape becomes lush and green, outdoor activities may be hindered by the rain, so plan accordingly if visiting during this time.
Tarlac City at Night
Hiking in Tarlac City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Known for its stunning crater lake and beautiful landscapes, Mount Pinatubo offers a challenging trek that rewards hikers with breathtaking views.
This mountain is less crowded and features scenic trails that are perfect for both experienced trekkers and beginners, offering a peaceful hiking experience.
These hills provide a variety of trails for hiking and are ideal for nature lovers who want to explore less commercialized paths.
A relatively easy hike that offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas, Mount Gola is suitable for families and casual hikers.
This location features a mix of challenging and moderate trails, leading hikers through lush vegetation and offering beautiful vistas.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tarlac City through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tarlac City by plane.
Located in Angeles City, Pampanga, approximately 33 km from Tarlac City. It serves as the primary airport for Central and Northern Luzon and offers both domestic and international flights.
Located in Pasay City, Metro Manila, approximately 98 km from Tarlac City. It is the main airport serving Metro Manila and the busiest airport in the Philippines, handling numerous international flights.
Located in Subic Bay Freeport Zone, approximately 65 km from Tarlac City. It offers limited domestic flights and is used primarily for cargo and chartered flights, making it a secondary option for international travelers.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The primary ethnic group in Tarlac City, known for their rich culture and heritage.
A significant group in the region, traditionally involved in agriculture and trade.
A prominent ethnic group with a strong presence in urban areas, contributing to local commerce and community.
People from the Visayas region who have migrated to Tarlac City, adding to the cultural diversity.
A community with historical roots in trade, contributing to the economy and local businesses.
A smaller demographic group in Tarlac City, representing the Islamic faith and culture.
The Soul of Tarlac City
Discover the essence of Tarlac City through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Tarlac City, with numerous courts available for play and a strong local following.
Volleyball enjoys popularity among both men and women, with many local leagues and community events.
Football has a growing fan base in Tarlac City, with youth programs and community matches held regularly.
Badminton is a widely played sport in recreational centers and schools, attracting many enthusiasts.
Dragon Boat Racing is a traditional water sport that has gained popularity in Tarlac, with teams competing in local and national events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tarlac City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Tarlac City's traditional cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, several restaurants and food stalls in the city center and tourist areas offer vegetable-based dishes, such as pinakbet (mixed vegetable stew) and ginataang langka (jackfruit stew). Visitors following vegetarian or vegan diets should inquire about customization options when dining out.
Finding gluten-free options can be challenging in Tarlac City due to the prevalent use of wheat-based ingredients. However, some establishments may offer rice-based dishes and snacks that are naturally gluten-free. It's advisable for individuals with gluten intolerance to communicate their dietary needs clearly to restaurant staff for suitable recommendations.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Tarlac City with these cultural adventures.
