· PH

Tarlac City

Tarlac City, Tarlac, Philippines

Discover the Heart of Luzon: Tarlac City, Philippines Beyond the bustling streets of Manila lies Tarlac City, a hidden gem in the heart of Luzon, Philippines. More than just a stopover, Tarlac City offers a captivating …

#urban#province#Philippines#cityscape#historical

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Tarlac City.

Top Hotels in Tarlac City

Top Flights to Tarlac City

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Tarlac City.

Tours

Museo de Tarlac

Explore the rich cultural heritage of Tarlac with exhibits on local history and art.

Shopping

SM City Tarlac

A popular shopping destination offering a wide array of international and local brands, dining, and entertainment.

Outdoor

Tarlac Recreational Park

An expansive park offering a range of outdoor activities including kayaking, camping, and zip-lining.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Tarlac City.

Currency
₱ | PHP | Philippine Peso
Population
385398.0
Languages
Filipino, Kapampangan, Tagalog, English
Average weather
Tarlac City
Jan
sun
30°21°
Feb
sun
31°21°
Mar
sun
33°23°
Apr
hot
35°25°
May
hot
34°25°
Jun
rain
32°25°
Jul
rain
31°24°
Aug
rain
31°24°
Sep
rain
31°24°
Oct
rain
31°24°
Nov
cloud
31°23°
Dec
cloud
30°22°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Tarlac City.

What people love

Here are some pros of traveling to Tarlac City, Tarlac, Philippines:

  1. Historical Sites: Tarlac City is home to several historical sites such as the Aquino Center and Museum, which is dedicated to the late Senator Benigno Aquino Jr. and his wife, former President Corazon Aquino. It also has the Luisita Golf and Country Club, a historical golf course in the Philippines.

  2. Outdoor Activities: Tarlac City offers various outdoor activities such as hiking at Mount Tangisan, fishing at Tarlac River, and bird watching at the Tarlac Ecotourism Park. Visitors can also enjoy camping, trekking, and picnic spots in the surrounding areas.

  3. Culinary Delights: The city is known for its local delicacies such as the famous "Tarlac Longganisa" (sausage) and "Iniruban" (sticky rice cooked in coconut milk). Visitors can explore the local food scene and indulge in authentic Filipino cuisine.

  4. Scenic Views: Tarlac City boasts scenic landscapes and beautiful countryside views, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and photographers. The city is surrounded by lush greenery, rice fields, and picturesque mountains, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life.

  5. Cultural Experiences: Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by exploring traditional markets, attending local festivals and events, and interacting with the friendly locals. Tarlac City offers a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines.

Overall, traveling to Tarlac City, Tarlac, Philippines, offers a unique blend of history, nature, and culture, making it a worthwhile destination for tourists looking for an authentic Filipino experience.

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Tarlac City in the Philippines may include:

  1. Limited public transportation options: Tarlac City may not have as extensive public transportation networks compared to larger cities in the Philippines, making it more challenging to get around for tourists.

  2. Limited tourist attractions: While Tarlac City has some interesting sites such as the Aquino Center and Museum, it may not offer as many tourist attractions as other popular destinations in the Philippines.

  3. Limited dining and entertainment options: The city may have fewer dining and entertainment options compared to more touristy areas, which could potentially limit the overall experience for travelers.

  4. Hot and humid climate: Tarlac City, like many places in the Philippines, can have a hot and humid climate throughout the year, which may not be suitable for everyone, especially those who are not accustomed to such weather conditions.

  5. Potential language barriers: While English is widely spoken in the Philippines, there may still be some language barriers in Tarlac City, especially in more rural areas where English proficiency may not be as high.

Overall, while Tarlac City may offer a more off-the-beaten-path experience for travelers looking to explore a less touristy destination in the Philippines, it may also come with some limitations in terms of infrastructure and tourist amenities.

History of Tarlac City, Tarlac, Philippines

Early History: Tarlac City, the capital of the province of Tarlac, is located in the Central Luzon region of the Philippines. The area that is now Tarlac City was initially inhabited by the Aetas, an indigenous people of the Philippines. The name "Tarlac" is derived from a talahib weed called "Malatarlac" that once grew in abundance in the area.

Spanish Colonial Era: During the Spanish colonial period, Tarlac was part of the extensive territory of the Pampanga region. It was only in 1874 that Tarlac was organized as a separate province. The city of Tarlac played a significant role during the Spanish era as a converging point for several towns due to its strategic location.

American Period: In the early 1900s, under American rule, the province of Tarlac and its capital continued to develop. The city became a hub for agriculture, particularly rice and sugar production, which were major economic activities in the region.

World War II: Tarlac City was significantly affected during World War II. It was one of the areas occupied by Japanese forces. The city witnessed several battles and movements of Allied forces during the liberation of the Philippines in 1945.

Post-War Period and Martial Law: After World War II, Tarlac City underwent reconstruction and development. It became a first-class city and a center for economic and educational activities. During the Martial Law period under Ferdinand Marcos (1972-1981), Tarlac was known as a stronghold of opposition figures, particularly the Aquino family.

Historical Figures:

  • Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr.: A prominent political figure and opposition leader during the Marcos regime, Ninoy was a native of Tarlac. His assassination in 1983 was a pivotal moment in Philippine history that eventually led to the People Power Revolution.
  • Corazon "Cory" Aquino: The wife of Ninoy Aquino, she became the first female president of the Philippines and was a symbol of the restoration of democracy after the Marcos dictatorship.

Important Landmarks:

  • Aquino Center and Museum: Located in Tarlac City, this museum is dedicated to the legacy of the Aquino family and their role in Philippine history.
  • Maria Clara Museum: A museum that showcases the history, culture, and heritage of Tarlac.
  • San Sebastian Cathedral: One of the oldest churches in Tarlac City, it serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Tarlac.

Recent Developments: In recent years, Tarlac City has continued to grow as a commercial and educational center in Central Luzon. The city is known for its diverse culture and as a melting pot of various ethnic groups.

Overall, Tarlac City has a rich history marked by its strategic importance, cultural diversity, and significant contributions to the political landscape of the Philippines.