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How to Get to Bacolod City

How to Get to Bacolod City

Bacolod City Western Visayas, Philippines Travel Guide

Air Access

Bacolod-Silay Airport BCD

Bacolod-Silay International Airport (BCD) serves as the main airport for Bacolod City. It located in Silay City, approximately 15 kilometers north of Bacolod City proper.

Domestic Carriers & Routes

  • Major airlines include Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia.
  • Direct connections from Manila, Cebu, Clark, Caticlan, Davao.
  • No direct international flights; connect using Manila or Cebu hubs.

Airport Transfers

Upon arrival at BCD, several convenient transfer options connect you to Bacolod City.

Transfer Options

  • Metered taxis: Fixed-rate taxi service to Bacolod City, PHP 250-350.
  • Shared van shuttle: Transfers to various spots in Bacolod City, PHP 150-200.
  • Bus/Jeepney: Cheaper options from highway outside airport compound.

Airport Amenities

BCD offers check-in, passenger lounges, small shops, cafes, ATMs, car rental. Compact and easy to navigate.

Flight Deals & Prices

Flight prices higher during MassKara Festival (Oct) and major holidays. Dollar Flight Club for flight deals.

Booking Strategy

Advance booking recommended for peak periods. Prices lower during off-peak wet season. Skyscanner for comparison.

Arrival Considerations

International Connections

  • Connect via Manila (NAIA) or Cebu (MCIA) for international arrivals.
  • Plenty of domestic flights to BCD from major Philippine cities.
  • Monitor seasonal flight availability of best rates.
  • Allow sufficient transfer time between international and domestic flights.

Airport Services

  • Fixed-rate taxis and Grab rides offer direct transfers.
  • Shared vans are a budget-friendly option to various city points.
  • Hotels often arrange airport pickups, check at your place of stay.
  • Consider flight delays during typhoon season.

Traveler Tip

Peak Season

Always book flights and hotels well in advance, especially for festivals and holidays.

Off-Peak Savings

Travel during the off-peak wet season for potentially lower prices.

Flexibility

Flexible dates often yield better flight deals.

On Land

Bus Travel

Ceres Liner the main bus company for inter-city routes across Negros Island, connecting Bacolod to Dumaguete (Negros Oriental), San Carlos, Sipalay, Kabankalan, and numerous other towns.

Terminals & Fares

  • North Ceres Terminal: For northern destinations (Silay City, Cadiz Viejo for Lakawon Island).
  • South Ceres Terminal: For southern destinations (Murcia for Mambukal Mountain Resort, Sipalay, Dumaguete).
  • Buses are generally comfortable and an economical way to travel long distances.

Self-Driving

Car rental services available from Bacolod-Silay International Airport and within Bacolod City. DiscoverCars.com for car rentals.

Driving Essentials

  • Valid national driver's license and International Driving Permit (IDP) required.
  • Road conditions vary; the principal highways maintained, provincial roads less so.
  • Traffic congested in city, defensive driving advised.

Road Safety

Main roads throughout Negros Occidental are paved and in reasonable condition. Smaller roads or those leading to remote areas may be unpaved, narrow, or have potholes.

Driving Awareness

  • Aggressive drivers, numerous motorcycles, pedestrians, animals common.
  • Defensive driving essential. Safer to drive during daylight hours.
  • Seatbelts mandatory for drivers and front-seat passengers.

Motorcycle & Scooter

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are less common for tourists in Bacolod City itself. They might be available from smaller local shops.

Rider Advice

  • Not recommended for inexperienced riders due to challenging traffic.
  • Road safety concerns due to traffic conditions.
  • Not many dedicated bike lanes; caution advised for cycling on main roads.

Emergency & Accidents

  • National Emergency Hotline: 911.
  • Police: 166 (local), (034) 433-2811 (Bacolod City Police Office).
  • Fire: 160 (local), (034) 433-2555 (Bacolod City Fire Station).
  • For car rentals, keep rental company emergency contact at hand.
  • Drive defensively, especially during peak traffic hours.
  • In case of accident, contact authorities and your travel insurance.

Sea Routes

Port Operations

Bacolod Bredco Port a major seaport handling both passenger and cargo vessels. It joins Bacolod to neighboring islands, especially Panay.

Fast Craft Services

  • OceanJet, Weesam Express, and SuperCat offer frequent, high-speed trips to Iloilo City (1-1.5 hours).
  • Popular for day trips or onward travel.
  • RORO (Roll-on/Roll-off) ferries also to Iloilo City (~2 hours), transport vehicles.

Other Connections

Overnight services to Manila available via 2GO Travel, with a travel time of around 18-20 hours.

Inter-Island Travel

  • Cebu connections: bus to San Carlos City, ferry to Toledo, Cebu, then land transport to Cebu City.
  • Valid ID (government-issued or passport) for domestic ferry ticket and boarding.
  • International cruise arrivals handled at designated international ports, not typically Bacolod Bredco.

Port Transfers

Taxis, tricycles, and jeepneys readily available outside Bacolod Bredco Port for city connections.

Port Facilities

Bacolod Bredco Port has waiting areas and some food stalls. Basic amenities for travelers.

Packing for Ferries

Consider bringing a small bag for an overnight stay ferry trips, with main luggage stored securely.

Departure Protocol

Airport Departure

For domestic flights from Bacolod-Silay International Airport, the terminal fee typically included in the airline ticket price. No separate exit fee.

Timing & Procedures

  • Arrive no later THAN 1.5-2 hours before scheduled domestic flight departure.
  • This allows ample time for check-in, security screening, and any unforeseen delays.
  • Airport facilities include lounges, shops, and cafes for departing travelers.

Seaport Departure

If departing by fast craft ferry from Bacolod Bredco Port, arrive at least 1 hour before scheduled departure.

Boarding & Amenities

  • Boarding typically closes 15-30 minutes before the ferry leaves.
  • Allow more time for RORO ferries or overnight services for check-in and luggage.
  • Bacolod Bredco Port offers waiting areas and food stalls.

Smooth Exit

Confirm Bookings

Double-check flight or ferry departure times prior to departing your lodging.

Travel Documents

Ensure passport, tickets, and any other necessary documents are easily accessible.

Luggage Weight

Check baggage allowances to avoid last-minute fees.

Local Transfer Tip

Pre-arrange your airport or port transfer if traveling with heavy luggage or during peak hours.