Vigan is one of those places where you don’t just visit — you leave with a bag full of food and a plan to come back for more. The city’s Kai Vigan Longganisa & Bagnet is a dedicated pasalubong stop that gets a 4.9 rating from 57 reviews, and it’s open daily from 8AM to 4PM. That’s a strong sign that people really like what they find there. But the real trick is knowing what to buy, where to get it, and how to bring it home without ruining it.
What You Can Actually Bring Home
You’ll find most of these at the Vigan Public Market or along Calle Crisologo. The market is better for bulk buys like longganisa and bagnet. Calle Crisologo has more variety for shirts, keychains, and handicrafts, but prices can be a little higher because of the tourist crowd.
When to Shop and What Changes the Trip
Morning is the best time for fresh longganisa and poqui-poqui — both go well with hot coffee. By noon, bagnet and pinakbet take over. Late afternoon is when tupig and okoy vendors start appearing. If you’re after street food at Plaza Burgos, go early evening when the empanada stalls are fully running.
Most places in Vigan prefer cash. ATMs are available but can run out during peak weekends. Bring enough cash for your pasalubong shopping, especially if you’re buying at the public market where card payments aren’t accepted.
Where to Get Your Pasalubong
Kai Vigan Longganisa & Bagnet
This is a dedicated pasalubong shop at 10 Gomez St, Vigan City. They offer free tastings of bagnet and other items. The owner, Ate Len, is known for being friendly and giving discounts or freebies. Average visit time is only 15 minutes, so it’s a quick stop. Open daily from 8AM to 4PM. Call +63 939 248 4559 if you want to check stock before heading over.
Vigan Public Market
Best for buying bagnet and longganisa in bulk. Prices are lower than souvenir shops along Calle Crisologo. You can find chichacorn, kamote chips, and vinegar here too. Go early — the best cuts of bagnet go fast.
Calle Crisologo Souvenir Shops
Open daily from 9AM to 7PM. This is where you’ll find T-shirts, keychains, ref magnets, secondhand books, and inabel products. The shops along this street are more tourist-oriented, so expect slightly higher prices. But the selection is wider, especially for handicrafts and unique items like miniature clay pots from Vigan Pagburnayan.
Vigan Pagburnayan
Located on the north-western side of the city, this is where local potters work with bantog clay. You can buy miniature pots or small sculptures. Some are given for free if you buy larger items. It’s a good stop if you want something that isn’t food.
What to Actually Buy and How to Choose
Food That Travels Well
Bagnet and longganisa are the safest bets. Both are pre-cooked and can survive a few hours without refrigeration if you’re heading straight home. Chichacorn and kamote chips are light and won’t break in your bag. Sukang Iloko (dark cane vinegar) is a good souvenir — it’s sharp and pairs well with bagnet. Bottles are sealed, so they won’t leak if packed properly.
Non-Food Souvenirs Worth Getting
Inabel blankets are a standout. They’re comfortable in any weather and fold small. T-shirts with funny Ilocano food lists are popular and cheap. If you’re into antiques, Vigan has furniture, carvings, and even old horse shoes. Just plan how to transport them — they’re heavy and bulky.
What to Skip
Starbucks Vigan mugs are available since the store opened on Calle Crisologo in 2023. They’re expensive and you can find them anywhere. Stick to local items instead. Secondhand books along Calle Crisologo are hit-or-miss — no trading, and the selection is limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most famous dish in Vigan? ▾
Where can I find the best empanada in Vigan? ▾
What dessert is Vigan known for? ▾
Are there vegetarian options in Vigan? ▾
What is the signature condiment of Ilocos? ▾
How much is chichacorn in Vigan? ▾
Can I buy bagnet and bring it home on a plane? ▾
What are the best non-food souvenirs from Vigan? ▾
Plan Your Pasalubong Run
The key to a good Vigan pasalubong is knowing what keeps and what doesn’t. Stick to bagnet, longganisa, chichacorn, and inabel for safe bets. Hit the public market early for the best prices, then browse Calle Crisologo for unique finds. Bring cash, pack your bagnet for a re-fry later, and don’t leave without a bottle of Sukang Iloko.
If this was useful, you might also want to read our full Vigan shopping guide for more tips on where to find authentic souvenirs.
Sources
The Ultimate Vigan Food Trip: 10 Must-Try Dishes You Can’t Miss — A deeper look at the dishes mentioned here, with more detail on where to eat them.
Vigan’s Secret Spots: Locals Share Their Best-Kept Secrets — Off-the-beaten-path places in Vigan that most tourists miss.
Kai Vigan Longganisa & Bagnet. Wanderlog, 2025.
Vigan Dishes 2025: Ilocano Food Guide. The Asian Affairs, 2025.
What to Buy in Vigan: Souvenir & Pasalubong Guide. Lakad Pilipinas, 2014.
