Pampanga is known as the culinary capital of the Philippines because it serves some of the best Filipino cuisine, but this province in Central Luzon offers more than simply delicious food. 

In addition to Clark, a highly developed and contemporary city, this region is also a popular destination for hiking expeditions and festivals that offer gorgeous displays of Christmas lanterns and hot air balloons. Add Pampanga to your vacation itinerary when in the Philippines for a culinary adventure, nature excursions, and exciting colorful festivals because it's only a couple of hours from Manila.

Clark Museum and 4D Theater

Learn about the history and culture of Clark and the surrounding areas through exhibits and an immersive 4D experience.

Clark Picnic Grounds

Enjoy a relaxing day outdoors with family or friends in the spacious picnic grounds.

Mount Pinatubo

Embark on a challenging but rewarding trek to the stunning Crater Lake at the summit of Mount Pinatubo. It's a unique experience for adventure enthusiasts.

Angeles City

Explore the nightlife and entertainment options along Fields Avenue, known for its bars, clubs, and restaurants.

Holy Rosary Parish Church (Santo Rosario Church)

Visit this historical church, also known as Angeles Church, which dates back to the Spanish colonial era.

San Fernando

Discover the city's heritage by walking through the Heritage District, featuring well-preserved ancestral houses and structures.

Dinosaur Island in Clark

If you're traveling with family, Dinosaur Island offers an entertaining and educational experience with life-sized dinosaur replicas.

Sky Ranch Pampanga

Enjoy rides, attractions, and family-friendly entertainment at Sky Ranch, located in San Fernando.

Nayong Pilipino Clark

Experience a cultural village showcasing traditional Filipino architecture, customs, and traditions.

Museo Ning Angeles

Learn more about the history and culture of Angeles City through the exhibits at Museo Ning Angeles.

Puning Hot Springs and Spa

Indulge in a relaxing hot spring bath surrounded by the natural beauty of the landscape. There are also adventure activities available.

Culinary Adventure

Pampanga is renowned as the "Culinary Capital of the Philippines." Explore local markets, dine in traditional eateries, and indulge in iconic dishes such as sisig, tocino, and halo-halo.

Attend Festivals

Check the local festival calendar. Pampanga hosts vibrant festivals like the Sinukwan Festival and the Giant Lantern Festival, showcasing the province's rich culture and traditions.

Hot Air Balloon Festival

If you visit during the Hot Air Balloon Festival in Clark, enjoy the spectacular sight of colorful hot air balloons filling the sky.

Outdoor Adventures

Engage in outdoor activities like trekking in Mount Pinatubo, exploring the Sacobia River, or joining adventure parks in Clark for ziplining and other thrill-seeking pursuits.

Historical and Cultural Exploration

Visit historical sites such as the Holy Rosary Parish Church in Angeles City, Museo Ning Angeles, and the San Fernando Heritage District to learn about Pampanga's rich history.

Relax at Hot Springs

Unwind at Puning Hot Springs and Spa. Enjoy natural hot spring pools and take part in activities like lahar trekking and mudpack treatments.

Shopping

Explore local markets and malls for unique Pampanga products. The city of Angeles has shopping districts where you can find souvenirs and local crafts.

Attend Workshops

Some places in Pampanga offer workshops on traditional crafts, culinary arts, and other cultural activities. Check for opportunities to engage in hands-on experiences.

Nightlife in Angeles City

Experience the vibrant nightlife along Fields Avenue in Angeles City, known for its bars, clubs, and entertainment venues.

Visit Nayong Pilipino Clark

Explore the cultural theme park Nayong Pilipino Clark, where you can see replicas of traditional Filipino houses and experience the country's cultural diversity.

Photography Excursion

Pampanga has picturesque landscapes and historical sites, making it a great destination for photography enthusiasts. Capture the beauty of the countryside, historical landmarks, and vibrant festivals.

The dry season in Pampanga typically occurs from November to April. This period is considered the best time to visit due to the pleasant weather and lower chances of rainfall. The months from December to February are particularly favored, offering cooler temperatures and a more comfortable climate for outdoor activities. During these months, you can enjoy exploring the province, engaging in outdoor adventures, and attending various festivals and events.

The wet season in Pampanga usually spans from May to October. While the wet season brings higher chances of rainfall and occasional typhoons, it also contributes to the lush greenery of the region.

By Air

The most convenient way to reach Pampanga is by flying into Clark International Airport (CRK), which serves as the main gateway to the province. Several domestic and international flights operate to and from this airport. Airlines like Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia connect Clark to major cities in the Philippines and various destinations abroad. From the airport, you can easily access different parts of Pampanga using local transportation options.

By Sea

While Pampanga is an inland province and doesn't have direct access to the sea, you can opt to travel by sea to nearby ports and then take land transportation to reach your final destination in Pampanga. The nearest major seaport is the Port of Manila. From there, you can take buses or private vehicles to Pampanga, which is approximately a 2 to 3-hour drive, depending on traffic conditions.

By Car / Bus

Pampanga is well-connected by road networks, and traveling by car or bus is a common and convenient option. If you're coming from Manila, you can take the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), which connects directly to Pampanga. The journey by car usually takes around 1 to 2 hours, depending on your specific destination within the province. Buses, both public and private, also operate along this route, providing an affordable and accessible transportation option for travelers.

For those with their own vehicle or renting a car, the road system in Pampanga is well-maintained, making it relatively easy to navigate. Public buses, vans, and other forms of public transportation are available for those without private transportation.

By Taxi / Ride-Sharing Services

Taxis and ride-sharing services like Grab are available in urban areas such as Angeles City in Pampanga. You can easily hail a taxi on the street or use a mobile app to book a ride. Make sure the taxi uses a meter, and for ride-sharing services, the fare is usually determined in the app.

This is a convenient option for short distances within the city or for travellers who prefer not to drive.

By Car

Renting a car is a popular option for travellers who want more flexibility and independence in exploring Pampanga. Several car rental agencies operate in the province, and you can arrange for a vehicle at the airport or in major urban centers. The road network is well-developed, making it relatively easy to navigate.

By Motorcycle

Motorcycle rentals or using your own motorcycle are additional options for getting around Pampanga, especially for shorter distances or if you want to navigate through traffic more efficiently.

Pampanga offers a diverse range of dining options, catering to various budgets and culinary preferences.

Local Food

Pampanga boasts a vibrant culinary scene with numerous local restaurants such as Aling Lucing's Sisig, Everybody's Café, Milkywave Pampanga and Claude's Le Café de Ville.

Fresh Seafood

Pampanga, despite being a landlocked province, is known for its culinary excellence, including its delectable fresh seafood and here are some of its notable restaurants such as Señor Pacifico Seafood Resto, Island Grill Seafood & Steaks, Downtown Café and Bale Capampangan.

Western Food

Pampanga, known for its diverse culinary offerings, also features establishments serving delicious Western cuisine such as Margarita Station, The Pallet, Nest Asia and Mama's Table.

When shopping in Pampanga, bring home a taste of the province's culinary heritage with treats like pastillas, espasol, and tibok-tibok. Indulge in local cured meats such as tocino and longganisa, and explore handwoven products like abaniko and Filipino textiles. Unique souvenirs like woodcrafts and pottery reflect Pampanga's artistry. Consider taking home a bottle of sukang Paombong or trying the renowned balut for a true Pampangan culinary experience.

In Pampanga, you'll find a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. If you prefer luxury accommodations, consider staying at hotels and resorts in Clark Freeport Zone, such as Midori Clark Hotel or Widus Hotel and Casino. For a more relaxed ambiance, boutique hotels like 950 Condotel in Angeles City offer unique experiences.

Budget-friendly choices include guesthouses and inns scattered across the province, providing affordable and comfortable lodging. Additionally, consider exploring Airbnb options for a more personalized stay. Whether you're looking for high-end amenities or a cozy guesthouse, Pampanga offers a diverse array of accommodations to enhance your visit.

• Pack breathable and lightweight clothing suitable for warm temperatures.
• Bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking and exploring various terrains.
• Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat to protect against the sun.
• Bring compact umbrella or rain poncho, and a waterproof bag for electronics.
• Philippine Pesos for local transactions and credit/debit cards for larger purchases.

Travellers are recommended to wear light and breathable clothing, comfortable footwear, and sun protection like a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Bring a compact umbrella for occasional rain, and consider modest attire for cultural sites. Pack versatile outfits for daytime exploring and evening activities, including swimwear for water-related plans.

• Pampanga has a tropical climate, so pack light and breathable clothing suitable for warm temperatures.
• The local currency is the Philippine Peso (PHP). While ATMs are available in urban areas, it's advisable to have some local currency on hand, especially in more remote locations.
• Keep a list of important contacts, including the local emergency numbers, contact information for your accommodation, and the nearest embassy or consulate.
• Filipino and English are widely spoken, but learning a few basic Filipino phrases can enhance your travel experience and interactions with locals.