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2024 DIY ILOCOS NORTE TRAVEL GUIDE

Hopeless due to the countless failed attempts to travel with friends in this province, I have set aside my plans in coming to Ilocos Norte in the past years. Come 2022, when it reopened in the time of pandemic; I was finally able to set foot in this province. At last, I get to see and experience its raw island and beaches, the sprawling sand dunes, historical and cultural heritage sites, explore and savor the taste of the Ilocano dishes and more! If you wish to go down the exciting path that we took, here’s a detailed Ilocos Norte Travel Guide to help you with!

About Ilocos Norte

Far from the Metro as it seems, the province of Ilocos Norte that lies in the northern west most part of the mainland Luzon is worth visiting despite the long drive. It opens up to the West Philippine sea which gives it good swells on a certain season ideal for surfing. It is also bordered by the ranges of Cordilleras, the provinces of Cagayan in the northeast, Apayao and Abra in the east and Ilocos Sur in the south which equally offers a satisfyingly scenic route.

The province as part of the Ilocos Region, is a home to the Ilocanos who are interestingly known for being thrifty and wise spenders.

Ilocano is the widely spoken language in the region. Conversing with them when traveling around won’t be quite a challenge as they can also speak and understand Tagalog and English, too.

Best time to Visit

It is best to visit Ilocos Norte the whole year but to make the most out of it, might as well schedule your trips some time between January to the first few weeks of June and September to December . Be reminded though that it gets really hot during the dry season in the country (March to May). If you wish to go surfing or windsurfing, on the other hand, the best time to visit would be around the months of July to September.

What to Visit

Ilocos Norte has always been in my list and I have been dying to see its attractions not knowing that it’s more than those places that I have been eyeing. During our trip this year, we were lucky enough to visit the sought after, new attractions and even the less-traveled ones. Among those are as follows:

• Solsona-Apayao Road
• Luna Shrine
• Paoay Church
• Paoay Lake Waterpark
• Balay San Nicolas
• Badoc Island
• La Milagrosa Cove and Chapel
• Malacanang of the North (Balay ti Amianan)
• Macagutgot Cove
• Paoay Sand Dunes
• La Paz Sand Dunes in Laoag City
• Blue Lagoon
• Kabigan Falls
• Patapat Viaduct
• EDC Burgos Wind Farm
• Kapurpurawan Rock Formation
• Cape Bojeador
• Madongan Dam
• Bangui Windmills
• Bacarra Church and Museum

Read more (entrance fees, operation hours, etc.) about these places: Top Ilocos Norte Tourist Spots in 2024

Where to Eat

If you are looking forward to an Ilocano culinary experience, this Ilocos Norte Travel Guide provides you with the list of the ones that you shouldn’t miss when visiting the province!

• Ladrillos Restaurant – A Spanish restaurant that also serves traditional and modern Ilocano dishes at the heart of San Nicolas. It is located at the ground floor of the refurnished Valdes-Lardizabal house (Also known as Balay San Nicolas) that is more than a century old. After stuffing ourselves up with some good Filipino food, we took a light walk through a tour at the heritage house where the restaurant is situated.
• Kamarinn Café – offers a Filipino dining experience with the view of the majestic Paoay lake. It is among the best places to eat in Ilocos Norte especially if you’re up for some Pinakbet pizza and other Ilocano dish while you enjoy the scene.
• Kusina ni Remedios at Sitio Remedios Heritage Village – If you wish to enjoy the scene, food and art at once, Kusina ni Remedios in Currimao is the best place to be. This restaurant embellished with art in every corner is located inside a Heritage Village with the restaurant facing the West Philippine Sea.
• Hakuna Matata Saud Beach Resort – a hippie hostel facing Saud Beach. What we love about evenings at Hakuna Matata is their buffet dinner with a wide food selection including the sushi, maki, pasta, pizza prepared on the spot and more!
• BergBlick Restaurant – best place to eat in Pagudpud especially if you’re down for some authentic German and Filipino food
• La Preciosa – a spot for your sweet tooth in Laoag City. Aside from the Ilocano dishes, it is also the best place to enjoy a good slice of carrot cake in the town.

Don’t miss out on these food!

If you are to go on a gastronomic adventure in the province, among the food that you shouldn’t miss out on are Pinakbet (mixed vegetables dish), poqui-poqui , Bagnet (deep fried crispy pork belly), longganisa, empanada and Okoy Tiyosko .

Where to Stay

Amici Resort Hotel Location: Laoag City, Ilocos Norte Email: [email protected] Mobile: +63 917 897 6890

I personally enjoyed our stay at Amici Resort Hotel. We checked into a private, fully-equipped and air-conditioned casitas for days and enjoyed Filipino, especially Ilocano dishes for breakfast every morning. A walk around the resort always feels like a stroll in the garden with lush and blooming flora. Though nestled at the heart of Laoag, it seemed detached to the bustle of the city making it an ideal place to take some rest after a day full of fun around the province.

Nest Resort and Hotel Location: Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte Email: [email protected] Mobile: +63 968 362 8669

Hakuna Matata Saud Beach Resort Location: Saud Beach, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte Email: hakunamatataresort.ph

Pannzian Beach Resort Location: Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte Email: [email protected] Telephone: (02) 8 646 9020 Mobile: +39 920 952 0662

Sitio Remedios Heritage Village Resort Location: Currimao, Ilocos Norte Email: [email protected] Mobile: +63 917 332 0217

For a complete list of Ilocos Norte’s accredited hotels and resorts, click here .

Things to Do

Ilocos Norte is among those provinces in the Philippines that has a lot to offer and I realized and a week-long travel won’t suffice to experience everything. I was really stoked to try each and every activity there is in every attraction that we visited. Below is the list of top things to do in the province:

• Freediving or SCUBA diving
• Windsurfing
• 4×4 ATV riding
• Sandboarding
• Island Hopping
• Visiting Museums
• Visiting historical churches
• Chasing waterfalls
• Playing in a Water Park
• Trying local Ilocano dishes

Sample 4D 3N Ilocos Norte Itinerary

Day 0 10:00 PM – ETD Manila to Ilocos Norte

Day 1 9:00 AM – ETA Ilocos Norte, Breakfast and Early Check in 11:00 AM – Start of Tour 12:00 NN – Luna Shrine 1:00 PM – Late Lunch at Ladrillos Restaurant and tour around San Nicolas Heritage House 2:00 PM Batac Empanada 3:00 PM – Paoay Lake Water park 6:30 PM – Dinner at Kamarinn Cafe

Day 2 6:00 AM – Breakfast 8:30 AM – La Milagrosa Cove and Chapel 9:00 AM – Badoc Island 12:30 NN – Lunch at Sitio Remedios Heritage Resort 3:00 PM – Paoay Sand Dunes

Day 3 6:00 AM – Breakfast 8:00 AM – Kabigan Falls or Macagutgot Cove 11:00 AM – Patapat Viaduct 12:00 PM – Lunch at Pannzian Resort 3:00 PM – Saud Beach 7:00 PM – Dinner at Hakuna Matata 9:00 PM – Back to Hotel

Day 4 6:00 AM – Breakfast 8:00 AM – Blue Lagoon 11:00 AM – Early Check out 12:00 NN – Lunch at Bergblick Restaurant 2:30 PM – EDC Burgos Windfarm 4:00 PM – Kapurpurawan Rock Formation 6:30 PM – Dinner at La Preciosa 8:00 PM – Souvenir and Pasalubong Center; Home bound

To know the province even more, the Ilocos Norte Tourism office has curated itineraries for your that may cater to your travel preferences and interests, too! Check it out here .

Sample 4D 3N DIY Ilocos Norte Budget

• Bus fare (Php 701.00 x 2) – PHp 1,402.00
• Paoay Lake Waterpark (2-hour pass) – 399.00
• Badoc Island boat ride (Php 1,200.00/3) – Php 400.00
• Paoay Sand Dunes (Php 2,500.00/5) – Php 500.00
• Kabigan Falls Tour Guide fee (Php 100.00/5) – Php 20.00
• Kabigan falls entrance fee – Php 10.00
• Saud Beach Environmental fee – Php 20.00
• Blue Lagoon Environmental fee – Php 20.00
• Kapurpurawan Rock Formation Entrance fee – Php 30.00
• Bus fare from Laoag-Pagudpud v.v. (Php 75.00/ way x3) – Php 225.00
• Tricycle rental (Php 600.00), for 4 days divided by 3 – Php 800.00
• Hotel Accommodation for 4 days (room sharing) – Php 3,000.00
• Food (sharing) – Php 2,000.00

Total – Php 8,826.00

How to Get There

By air (mnl – lao).

Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines have one to two flights daily from Manila to Laoag International Airport .

Manila to Laoag, Ilocos Norte by Land

From Sampaloc, Cubao or Pasay, take a Florida, Fariñas, Maria de Leon and Partas bus to Laoag City. Travel time is approximately 7 to 8 hours passing through North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway (SCTEX) and Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX). Fare ranges from Php 700.00 to Php 1,100.00.

Baguio to Ilocos Norte by Land

Take a Partas or Farinas bus or van from Laoag to Baguio City. Travel time is approximately 4 to 5 hours. Fare, on the other hand, ranges from Php 250.00 to Php 400.00.

Tuguegarao City, Cagayan to Ilocos Norte by Land

Take a GMW or GV Florida bus from Tuguegarao City to Laoag City. Travel time is approximately 5 to 6 hours and fare ranges from Php 500.00 to Php 700.00.

Clark City, Pampanga to Ilocos Norte by Land

Take a bus at Dau Integrated Bus Terminal to Laoag City. Travel time is approximately 8 to 9 hours.

Going Around

Private car/ van – You may book a private car or van through a van association or through arranging it with your hotel. Price is around Php 3,500.00 per day . This rate includes the drive already. Bus – Bus fare ranges from Php 25.00 to Php 60.00 / passenger in ordinary bus and a minimum of Php 50.00 for air-conditioned ones. Jeepney – Fare is usually at around Php 11.00 from a point to another. Tricycle – Fare starts at Php 11.00 per more or less a kilometer. You may also opt to rent a tricycle that would take you around the tourist spots in a town. Rates range from Php 250.00 to Php 600.00. Calesa (horse-drawn wagon/carriage) – Fare starts at Php 15.00 per kilometer. You can actually see a calesa mostly in the town proper especially in Laoag.

You may also want to read:

• North Luzon Loop Road Trip Travel Guide 2024
• The Ultimate Philippines Bucket List: Luzon Edition

Other places to visit in North Luzon:

• Isabela Province Travel Guide 2024
• Calvary Hills Iguig Cagayan 2024 Travel Guide
• 2024 Travel Guide to Buscalan Village, Tinglayan, Kalinga with Ifugao side trip
• The Hanging Coffins of Sagada, Mountain Province and their Burial and Death Rituals
• Landingan Viewpoint, Nagtipunan, Quirino Province DIY Travel Guide

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran

Anne Elizabeth Gumiran, also known as Queenie, is a 20-something, full-time public school teacher, a part-time travel blogger and a freediver. She started putting her stories of adventures and misadventures into words and pictures in 2017 and continues to do so as she shares her advocacy, Sustainable Traveling.

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2024 Ilocos Sur & Ilocos Norte 3 Days 2 Nights Itinerary: Travel Guide + Budget

The Ilocos region particularly Ilocos Sur & Ilocos Norte is a famous destination to city dwellers in Manila. It comprises various activities like (1) strolling or riding a kalesa to the historical Spanish-era houses in Vigan , (2) enjoying a 4×4 ride in Paoay ‘s Sand Dunes, (3) checking out the humongous windmills in Bangui , or (4) beach vibin’ at Pagudpud ‘s Blue Lagoon!

Doing a North Loop trip? Read my North Loop travel guide here: North Loop Itinerary & Budget

Table of Contents

About Ilocos Sur & Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Sur & Ilocos Norte is more than just historical sites and exhilarating activities. It is also famous for its signature delicacies that tourists are fond of. For example, Vigan empanada and okoy , chichacorn , longganisa , bagnet , and sinanglaw . Truly we cannot deny that fact that Ilocos is famous because of its local delicacies alone.

Moreover, the 2 provinces are located in the Northern most part of Luzon. This is why the weather is unpredictable, the tides can go up and down anytime of the year. However, the best chance of good weather is during summer season in the Philippines.

I visited Ilocos last December 2021 and the weather wasn’t in our favor. And then my family and I visited Ilocos again last May 2022 where the weather is finally on our side! Finally !

Where to Stay?

Assuming that you are following this 3 Days 2 Nights itinerary and that you are a budget traveler. Below are the places I recommend for your stay.

1st Night: Vigan, Ilocos Sur

BOOK ROOMS AT REDDOORS FOR AS LOW AS PHP700.00/NIGHT GOOD FOR 2 PERSON

BOOK ROOMS AT REDDOORZ PANTAY DAYA VIGAN FOR AS LOW AS PHP1,000.00/NIGHT

2nd Night: Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte

We stayed at Classique Homestay & Cottages which is a front beach of the famous Blue Lagoon beach. The price of the homestays here are quite expensive considering their facilities. However, this is the most budget place we saw with decent front beach. Air-condition room starts at Php2,500.00 good for 4-6 people. You can find other accommodations around the area but the beach is not that good from my preference.

BOOK ROOMS AT PALM GROVE FOR AS LOW AS PHP1,100.00/NIGHT

3D/2N Ilocos Tour Package

Similarly, for hassle-free package tours I highly recommend WayPH ! They have tours available in Ilocos and other places in the country as well. Check them out below!

BOOK ILOCOS TOUR WITH WAYPH HERE

Day 1: Ilocos Sur

Since we did a road trip and we came from Pangasinan, we left our house at 4am in the morning and arrived to our first destination in Old Quirino Bridge at 8am. We took some photos and headed to our next destination which is the Bantay Bell Tower and Church. There is no entrance fee to the Bantay Bell Tower, but they accept donations.

We checked in to our homestay in Jun And Tell Transient House which is just 2-3 minutes away from Vigan’s Calle Crisologo. After that we decided to rest for a few hours and headed straight to Baluarte Zoo at 3-5pm. We paid Php200.00 each for a shuttle ride going to 5 sites/stops.

At night we went strolling at Vigan’s Calle Crisologo. This is the place where you can buy souvenirs and food delicacies like chichacorn, longganisa iloco, bagnet , etc. You can also ride a kalesa here to appreciate more beauty of the Spanish-era houses. Kalesa ride is Php250.00 for a group of 4 and it will last for 1 hour. Calle Crisologo is the most famous tourist destination when in Ilocos Sur.

Sidetrip: Crisologo Museum

Day 2: Ilocos Norte

The next day, we woke up at 3am and left Vigan at 4am. We headed straight to Paoay Church which is my Dad’s most favorite Church in the country. We went to take a few photos outside the Church then my Mom paid her respects and lighted a candle inside. The travel time from Vigan to Paoay is about 1 hour and a half.

Subsequently, we went to the Malacanang of the North and Sand Dunes which is still within the premises of Paoay. The Malacanang of the North opens at 9am to 4pm everyday and the entrance fee is Php20.00. It is just beside the main highway in between Paoay Sand Dunes and Malacanang of the North.

The price of Sand Dunes varies on your negotiating skills. They gave us a price of Php2,000.00 for a group of 5. But you can still lower it down to Php1,500.00 if you are good with your negotiating skills. Unfortunately for us, we were not able to try it because we have 2 kids with us.

We went straight to Bangui Windmills which is another 1.5 hours from Paoay Sand Dunes. You can actually see the windmills even just along the road of Bangui. However I highly recommend going straight to the beach where you can see the windmills up close. It is so incredible up close!

After Bangui Windmills, we now entered Ilocos Norte and went to our accommodation in Blue Lagoon to check in. We took a rest for a few hours and walked by the shore in the afternoon.

Day 3: Ilocos Norte

We woke up at 5:30am and bathe in the beach for about 2 hours. After that we packed our things and did a sidetrip to Patapat Bridge before going home. We left Blue Lagoon at 9am and arrived in Vigan at 12:30pm just in time for our lunch. My family did one last stroll and rode a kalesa before going home. At 2:30pm we went back to Pangasinan and arrived at 7pm. End of tour .

Take note that the Kalesa Parking Area is just beside Vigan Park, a short walking distance from Calle Crisologo.

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7 thoughts on “ 2024 ilocos sur & ilocos norte 3 days 2 nights itinerary: travel guide + budget ”.

Miss ko na mag-Ilocos!

Hindi na mahigpit kath! Goraaaaa! 🙂

how much po naging budget nio for 4days ilocos trip nio sis? thank you

Hi! We spent approximately 20k for 3 adults and 2 kids during our trip. 🙂

how much po 2 night and 3 days?

“Thank you for this incredibly detailed guide to Ilocos Sur & Norte, Joana! Your itinerary is a perfect blend of history, culture, nature, and of course, the mouthwatering delicacies. The personal anecdotes and recommendations make planning a trip so much easier. I’m already daydreaming of strolling through Vigan’s Calle Crisologo and gazing up at those massive windmills in Bangui. Can’t wait to experience Ilocos for myself and follow in your footsteps! 🌅🍴🏛️”

Hi Jasmine! Thank you so much for your kind words. 🙂

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Understanding Ilocos Norte

What to bring for ilocos norte.

• Stylish  face mask
• Water container/tumbler  to rehydrate
• Sunscreen  for skin protection
• Goggles  for swimming or snorkeling
• Stylish  Swimsuit
• Travel  backpack  /  luggage
• Reusable  vacuum storage packs
• Selfie stick
• Waterproof phone case
• Camping tent

HOW TO GET TO ILOCOS NORTE

• Manila to Laoag
• Cebu to Laoag

GETTING AROUND ILOCOS NORTE

Batac-laoag-paoay tour, bangui-burgos-pagudpud tour, what to expect in ilocos norte.

• People here are called  "Ilocanos"
• Ilocanos  speak mostly Ilocano (the language) but they can understand, sometimes converse in Tagalog and/or English.
• Major telcos are available in the province
• Major and rural banks are open during business hours
• There are shopping malls and supermarket in Laoag.
• Traffic jams are only experienced in Laoag city proper. 

ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN ILOCOS NORTE 

Where to go and stay  in ilocos norte, activities and tours in manila, things to do  in ilocos norte, where to eat in ilocos norte, ilocos norte festivals and events, ilocos 3d2n itinerary.

• 06:30am - Bantay Church and Bell Tower (St. Agustine Church)
• 07:00am - Baluarte ni Chavit Singson
• 08:30am - Breakfast
• 10:30am - Batac Tour (Marcos Museum, Marcos Mausoleum, Photo Gallery)
• 12:30pm - Lunch 
• 02:00pm - Paoay Church
• 03:00pm - Malacañang Ti Amianan
• 04:30pm - Sand Dunes
• 06:00pm - Hotel Check-in
• 06:00am - Breakfast
• 06:30am - Estimated Time of Departure for Pagudpud
• 07:30am - Cape Bojeador
• 09:00am - Kapurpurawan Rock Formation
• 10:30am - Bangui Windmill
• 11:00am - Kabigan Falls (Optional for the physically fit; pax account)
• 12:30pm - Lunch at Pagudpud
• 01:00pm - Free Time (Swimming)
• 04:00pm - Bantay Abot Cave
• 04:30pm - Patapat Bridge
• 05:00pm - Estimated time of departure for the hotel
• 07:30am - Estimated Time of Departure for Vigan
• 09:30am - Start of Heritage tour (Kalesa Ride, Crisologo Museum, Pagburnayan, Heritage Village)
• 12:00pm - Lunch
• 01:00pm - Estimated Time of Departure for Manila

SAMPLE EXPENSES

• 800++ bus fare from Manila to Laoag
• 1000++ tricycle Paoay-Batac tour package
• 200 bus fare to Pagudpug from Laoag
• 1000-1500 tricyle roundtrip to Pagupud package
• 1000+2000 accomodation in Laoag/Pagudpud
• 20 per head tour to Kabigan Falls

TIPS AND CHECKLISTS

• Visiting the whole province is best for a 4D3N tour.
• ATMs, banks and MoneyTransfer are available in Laoag.
• Cellular signals are available for all networks.
• Souvenirs are sold in public markets and tourist sites in the whole province.
• Fastfoods and local eateries.
• Bring your own chargers/powerbanks for your gadgets.
• Vigan City is often a sidetrip going before or after Ilocos Norte.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Ilocos Norte

• What does Ilocos Norte known for? Ilocos Norte is noted for its distinctive geography and culture. This includes numerous examples of well-preserved Spanish colonial era architecture, particularly Saint William's Cathedral in Laoag with its sinking bell tower done in the Earthquake Baroque style, the St.
• How long is bus from Manila to Ilocos Norte? Travel time is usually up to 12 hours, depending on your destination and the traffic. Many buses operate to Ilocos, check out some of your options.
• What is the culture of Ilocos Norte? Ilocanos are known to be hardworking and frugal, hardy in the face of adversity. Respect and humility in everyday dealings mark the Ilocano personality; they live simply, concentrating on work and productivity. Local artisans like fabric weavers and potters are famous for their skilled craftwork.
• What to wear in  Ilocos Norte ? During the hottest season (April to June), it's recommended to wear comfortable clothing to make out the best of your trip to the province. You may also like to get your best swimsuit or Dri-FIT on if you are going to plunge and dive in to the sea and waterfalls in Ilocos Norte.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Have fun, Juan! (@morefunwithjuan)

• http://www.ilocosnorte.gov.ph/  | Ilocos Norte's government official website.
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ilocos_Norte  |Ilocos Norte on Wikipedia.
• http://itsmorefuninthephilippines.com/ilocos-norte  | Ilocos Norte on Philippine Tourism site.
• http://ilocostimes.com/  | Ilocos Times
• http://www.flyphilippines.biz/festivals_ilocos.php  | Festivals in Ilocos Norte

WHERE TO GO IN ILOCOS?

My Ilocos Norte DIY Travel Guide (How To Get There, Things To Do, Budget And Itinerary)

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The Happy Trip

Ilocos, vigan, pagudpud tour | diy itinerary.

 Calle Crisologo

Ilocos has been on my bucket list of the places I wanted to visit. So last January 2014, I immediately booked myself a trip along with some friends when Cebu Pacific offered a PhP99 seat for most destinations.

The trip was a bit long because I included in my itinerary some business activities. Unlike another travel blogger (with due respect to them) I don’t really tie myself to a very strict schedule. Simply because, when I travel I wanted to enjoy and I don’t want to be a slave to my own schedule, hence I put a lot of flexibility in my plan.

Here’s my itinerary when I visited Ilocos Region. The places I visited which I listed below has links which have details of my review of the place.

To make your trip easier, you may contact Driver/Tour Guide who helped me during my trip. He can provide you a vehicle to go around and he can also help you find a place to stay during your visit.

Tour Guide/Driver: Jeremy Rosal – Mobile Numbers: 09102572426/09278882800

Must Read : ILOCOS TRAVEL GUIDE

Isabel Suites

Below are my DIY schedule of activities:

Day 1 (Going to Manila to Laoag)

Bacolod to Manila – 7 AM

Manila Fame at SMX Mall of Asia ( I stayed there the whole day because I meet some people and meet with them in relation to my furniture and furnishing business)

Going to Laoag – 7 PM

Check in to Isabel Suites – 9 PM

Dinner at La Preciosa

Rest for the real vacation the following day

Salt Making in Ilocos

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 1:  DIY ITINERARY

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 2: FURNITURE EXHIBIT, GOING TO ILOCOS

Day 2 ( Paoay , Batac to Vigan for an Overnight Stay)

Breakfast  at the Isabel Suites -7 am

Check out at Isabel Suites for we plan to sleep over in Vigan in our 2nd day

Paoay Sand Dunes – 10 am

Malacanang of the North -11:30 am

Batac Ilocos: Empanada 12:30 pm

Marcos Mausoleum – 1:30 pm

Proceed to VIGAN -2:00 pm

Bantay Belfry – 3:00 PM

Baluarte -3:30

Secret Garden -4:00 pm

Pagburnayan – 4:30 pm

Check in Cordillera Inn, Vigan -5;30 pm

Calle Crisologo at Night /Dinner – 6:30 pm

Vigan Dancing Fountain – 7:30 pm

Rest at the Hotel – 10 PM

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 3:  OUR TOUR GUIDE , PAOAY SAND DUNES, 4×4, SAND BOARDING

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 4: MALACANANG OF THE NORTH

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 5: BATAC ILOCOS, EMPANADA, MARCOS MUSEUM AND MAUSOLEUM

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 6 : TINOBONG, BANTAY CHURCH

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 7: BALUARTE

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 8: SECRET GARDEN AND PAGBURNAYAN

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 9 : CALLE CRISOLOGO; VIGAN DANCING FOUNTAIN

Empanada, Batac Ilocos

Day 3 (Vigan Museum , Back to Laoag, Laoag City Tour)

Breakfast  at the Hotel- 7:00 am

Calle Crisologo Day Time

Crisologo Museum – 8:30 am

Sequoia Mansion-9:30

Back To LAOAG

Juan Luna Shrine – 11:00 am

Lunch at Badoc – 12:30

Paoay Church – 2:00 pm

Ilocos Museum -3:00 pm

StWilliam Cathedral and Sinking Bell Tower

Check In at Renzo  Hotel in Laoag -4: pm

Rest (because of the heavy schedule of the day we slept immediately upon reaching our room  and were not able to get out of our room to eat for dinner, instead we just requested for a room service)

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 10: CRISOLOGO MUSEUM AND SEQUIA MANSION

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 11: JUAN LUNA SHRINE

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 12: PAOAY CHURCH

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 13: ILOCOS MUSEUM, ST. WILLIAM CATHEDRAL, SINKING BELL, HOTEL

Day 4 (Pagudpud Day Tour)

Breakfast – 7:00 am

PAGUDPUD TRIP

Biscocho – 8:30 am

Salt Making –  9:30 AM

Cape Bojeador – 10:00 AM

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation – 11:00 AM

Bangui Windmill/Lunch – 11:45 AM

Kabigan Falls – 1:30 pm

Patapat Viaduct and Paraiso ni Anton – 3:30 pm

Blue Lagoon/ Zipline – 4:00 pm

Swimming at Hannah’s Resort  – 4:30

Back to Laoag – 5:30 pm

Check in to Hotel- Isabel Suites – 7:30 pm

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 14: BISCOCHO, SALT MAKING

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 15 : CAPE BOJEADOR

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 16: KAPURPURAWAN ROCK FORMATION

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 17: BANGUI WINDMILL

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 18 : KABIGAN FALLS

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 19: PATAPAT VIADUCT, PARAISO NI ANTON

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 20: BLUE LAGOON, ZIPLINE

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation

Day 5 (Chilling in Laoag, Back to Manila)

Breakfast – 8:00 am

Because we were too tired the previous day, we  rested the whole morning in the hotel and waited until check out time at 12 nn

Lunch and Movie at Robinson’s Mall – 12:30

Back to Manila – 7:00 pm

ILOCOS, VIGAN, PAGUDPUD  TRIP PART 21: LAST DAY IN ILOCOS, BACK TO MANILA

Where to Stay When in Ilocos:

LIST OF HOTELS IN VIGAN

LIST OF HOTELS IN ILOCOS  NORTE

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ILOCOS NORTE TRAVEL GUIDE

by thepinay solobackpacker | Jan 9, 2017 | Ilocos Norte , Philippines , Travel Guide | 14 comments

An old favorite, Ilocos Norte will leave you breathless with its sundry topography.  When touring the southern territories of Ilocos Norte, you may avail of their tricycle tours, whether you are in Burgos or Pagudpud.

Here’s a travel blog to help you plan your trip:

TRAVEL BLOG CONTENTS

HOW TO GET TO ILOCOS NORTE

Airlines like Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines fly between Manila and Laoag in Ilocos Norte.  Laoag International Airport is the only airport in Ilocos Norte.Travel time is about 1 hour. Fare is around PHP 1,900 (USD 38.31) – PHP 2,500 (USD 50.41). From the airport, you may hire a tricycle to take you to the city proper, there is also a jeep  bound for the city proper.

Several bus lines like Partas and Florida Bus travel between Cubao (Manila) and Laoag (Ilocos Norte) and Manila and Vigan (Ilocos Sur).   Bus fare to Vigan from Cubao, Manila is roughly PHP 665 (USD 13.41)  to PHP 805 ( USD 16.23).  Bus fare from Cubao, Manila to Laoag is PHP 805 ( USD 16.23)  to PHP 965 (USD 19.46).   Travel time is roughly 10 -12 hours.

PARTAS BUS SCHEDULE (MANILA-VIGAN – LAOAG)

  cubao (manila) to vigan (ilocos sur), cubao (manila) to laoag (ilocos norte), partas cubao bus terminal.

816 Aurora Boulevard, Cubao, Quezon City, Philippines

Contact Number: +63 (2) 727 8278

Partas Vigan Bus Terminal

Alcantara Street, Vigan City, Ilocos Sur

Contact Number: +63 (77) 722 2933 / +63 (77) 722 2935

FLORIDA BUS SCHEDULE ILOCOS  

(manila – laoag – paoay- junction luna- pasoquin – sarrat), florida bus.

Earnshaw St, Sampaloc, Manila, Metro Manila

Contact Numbers:

(02) 781 5894 – Sampaloc

(077) 770 3645 – Laoag

(078) 846 2265 – Tuguegarao

GETTING AROUND ILOCOS NORTE

If you are doing a DIY tour of Ilocos Norte, the best way to get around is by tricycle.  But if you are on a tight budget, you can ride a jeepney, ask the locals for directions to avoid getting lost.  From Laoag town proper, you can rent a tricycle for about PHP 250 / USD 5 (good for 4 persons) to take you to Paoay and its attractions (Paoay Church, Paoay Sand Dunes, Malacanang of the North and Paoay Lake). Travel time is 30 minutes.

You can also do the same if you are planning to tour around Batac, hire a tricycle for PHP 250 / USD 5 to tour you around.

For Pagudpud tour, hiring a tricycle is also the best way to see the attractions since they are quite far from one other and waiting for the bus to the next attraction will just eat up your time. I tried that on my first trip to Ilocos Norte, but it’s tiring and I feel like I’ve wasted my time waiting for the bus.

South tricycle tour (Burgos area) is PHP 600/USD 12.10 and North tricycle tour (Pagudpud area) is PHP 600/USD 12.10.

DIY TOUR OF ILOCOS NORTE

So again, tricycle tour is the best way to explore the tourist attractions of Ilocos Norte. Here’s the sample tricycle rates for Ilocos Norte tours.

TRAVEL TIP: If you are pressed for time, from Manila you can alight at Batac instead of Laoag. What we did was, we just visited the Marcos Presidential Center and Mausoleum, skipped the other attractions there and then hired a tricycle to Paoay for PHP 250.  We toured Paoay, then after touring Paoay, we took a jeepney to Laoag. See our Ilocos Norte itinerary below.

TOP ATTRACTIONS IN ILOCOS NORTE

Marcos Presidential Center and Mausoleumc

Batac Church

Paoay Church 

Malacañang of the North  

Sinking Bell Tower

St. William’s Cathedral

Provincial Capitol

La Paz Sand Dunes

Museo Ilocos Norte

Cape Bojeador Light House

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation

Bangui Windmills

Kabigan Falls

Bantay Abot Cave

Blue Lagoon Beach

Patapat Viaduct

Paraiso ni Anton

Aqua Grande

WHERE TO STAY IN ILOCOS NORTE

Laoag hotels.

CHECK ROOM RATES HERE

Viven hotel.

Farm Side Hotel

49-B Raraburan, Laoag City, City Proper, Laoag

Hotel Tiffany Laoag

Gen. Segundo Ave. Cor. M.H. del Pilar Street Laoag City, Ilocos Norte

Barangay 55 Barit – A, General Segundo Avenue, City Proper, Laoag

Ilocos Rosewell Hotel and Restaurant

National Highway, Brgy. 1, San Nicholas, City Proper, Laoag

Gen. Segundo Avenue, Brgy. 55-B Salet, City Proper, Laoag

PAGUDPUD RESORTS

Natsuca Beach Resort

Sitio Aprot, Caparispisan, Pagudpud

Casa Consuelo Resort – Island reef

P. Paterno St., Barangay Balaoi, Sitio Baniaran, Pagudpud

Palm Grove Saud Holiday Complex Hotel

Sitio Jupiter, Barangay Saud, Pagudpud, Pagudpud

Villa del Nico Beach Resort

Sitio Aprot, Caparispisan, Pagudpud, Pagudpud

Pannzian Beach Resort

Barangay Pancian, Pagudpud, Pagudpud

WHERE TO EAT IN ILOCOS NORTE

Batac Riverside Empanadahan Riverside, Batac

Herencia Cafe Marcos Ave, Paoay, Ilocos Norte

Dawang’s Place National Rd., Brgy. 1 San Francisco, San Nicolas, Laoag City Open Hours: 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Katrina’s Near BJMP, Laoag

Johnny Moon Cafe Gen Luna St. Cor. Balintawak St., Brgy. 9, Laoag City

La Moda Panciteria Rizal Rizal Street, laoag City with branch at Bonifacio Street, Laoag City Opne Hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Lidamero’s Eatery San Nicolas Rd., San Nicolas, Laoag

Evangelines’ Beach Resort

Saud Beach, Pagudpud

Kapuluan Vista Resort Sitio Baniaran, Barangay Balaoi, Pagudpud

ILOCOS NORTE TRIP BUDGET/ EXPENSES

Here’s a blog of my sample budget for my Ilocos Norte trip.  Food not included, prepare at least PHP 150 per meal for food if you are planning to dine in Pagudpud.  Food is cheaper in Laoag as there’s a wealth of restaurants to choose from.  This is good for a solo traveler, you will save more if you have a travel buddy.

ILOCOS NORTE ITINERARY

Here’s a sample 3 day/ 2 nights itinerary of Ilocos Sur (Batac-Paoay-Burgos-Bangui-Pagudpud) with Vigan and Sta. Maria, Ilocos side trip.

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14 comments.

Would you know the schedule of the buses/vans from Laoag-Pagudpu..? Our flight will arrive at Laoag International Airport at night and we are planning to directly go to Pagudpud instead of staying in Laoag for the night.

Also, is there really a direct bus from pagudpud going to Vigan..?

Whoa! This one’s very helpful! Thanks for this. If I may ask, how often do jeepneys pass by these tourist spots?

Hello. This blog is very informative and detailed as well. Btw, may mga contact no. ka sa mga tricycle na na-hire mo? Thanks!

Wala po. Pasenya na. Pero marami naman dun. Have fun! 🙂

Hi, your photos are so amazing! Did you really traveled SOLO to all these places?

I traveled solo the first time a few years back. Then I returned with friends recently.

Hi, how much is your budget for 3D2N?

I think I mentioned it on the blog. Please scroll down and read.

hi will be going to Ilocos on June 1st and its my first time. Do you have any tour guide recommendation. Thanks

No contacts. I’m sorry.

Wow!! Very informative and useful for solo traveler. Thank you

welcome! enjoy!

Hi, are the tricycles for rent easy to find? Is there a specific location where they are stationed? Or do I have to look around for them.

You can look around po.

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Ilocos Norte Itinerary – My 4 Day DIY Tour of Pagudpud, Laoag, Paoay

Here is the itinerary during my do-it-yourself (DIY) tour of Ilocos Norte for 4 days. My major destinations in Ilocos Norte were Pagudpud, Laoag City, and Paoay.

My first stop was Pagudpud, located at the northernmost tip of Luzon Island. To get there, I took the long bus commute from Tuguegarao City in Cagayan Province.

I arrived at around mid-morning and spent the rest of the day going to a couple of spots in town like the Patapat Viaduct, Kabigan Falls, Blue Lagoon, and Saud Beach.

On the second day, I decided to do a commuting tour of the Bangui Windmills, Kapurpurawan White Rock, and Cape Bojeador Lighthouse on my way down to Laoag, the capital city of Ilocos Norte. I spent two nights in Laoag while taking day trips to the beautiful churches of Paoay, Sarrat, and Bacarra.

I made sure to visit the Malacanang of the North at Paoay Lake before moving further south to the heritage city of Vigan, Ilocos Sur.

Ilocos Norte Itinerary Map

Day 1 – pagudpud, ilocos norte; bus commute from tuguegarao.

(also day four of my Northern Luzon Circuit)

• 5:00am –  Tricycle ride to “GMW Bus Liner” Terminal, Tuguegarao City, Cagayan from Hotel Ivory – P20
• 5:20am – Board “Laoag” GMW aircon bus. All Laoag-bound buses pass by Pagupud
• 6:20am – Departure from Tuguegarao City
• Bus ride from Tuguegarao City to Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte (5 hours) – P350 fare
• 11:30am – Arrival in Pagudpud
• Drop-off at highway intersection to Saud Beach
• Tricycle ride to Saud Beach – P60 charter
• Drop-off at Henry’s Homestay, located near Polaris Beach Resort
• Check-in at Henry’s Homestay – P300 per room per night (fan room with double bed and private CR).
• Room was clean enough, aptly sized, and the reception was very friendly
• 12:20nn – Lunch at Polaris Beach Resort
• Longsilog meal + 500ml bottled water – P140
• Saud Beach  sightseeing
• 1:20pm – Tricycle tour of  Pagudpud – P600 per tricycle
• 1:40pm – Kabigan Falls (30 minute inland trek) – P100 guide fee
• 3:15pm – Patapat Viaduct
• 3:25pm – Agua Grande / Agua Paraiso
• 4:00pm – Timmangtang Rock
• 4:20pm – Blue Lagoon / Maira-ira Beach
• 5:00pm – Back to Saud Beach
• Sunset at Saud Beach
• 7:00pm – Dinner at Evangeline Beach Resort
• Buffalo Chicken Meal (with drink) + extra rice – P214
• Sleep: Henry’s Homestay

Day 2 – Pagudpud to Laoag City road trip

• 10:00am – Ride tricycle to Pagudpud town proper or “centro” (15 minutes) – P30
• 11:20am – Departure from Pagudpud centro
• Bus ride from Pagudpud to Brgy. Baruyen in Bangui, Ilocos Norte (30 minutes) – P20
• 12:00am – Ride tricycle to Bangui Windmills – P100 round-trip charter
• 12:15am – Bangui Windmills  photo stop
• 1:00pm – Drop-off at Bangui Windmills viewdeck (along the highway)
• 1:10pm – Ride bus toBurgos – P15
• Drop-off at Cape Bojeador Lighthouse highway intersection
• 1:30pm – Walk to Cape Bojeador Lighthouse (20 minutes uphill hike)
• 1:50pm – Arrival at  Cape Bojeador Lighthouse
• Cape Bojeador Lighthouse  photo stop
• 2:20pm – Ride jeep to Kapurpurawan White Rock highway intersection – P10
• 2:30pm – Walk to Kapurpurawan White Rock Sightseeing (45 minutes)
• Kapurpurawan White Rock  photo stop
• Hitched a ride back to the highway
• 5:30pm – Bus ride from to Laoag (1 hour) – P50
• 6:30pm – Arrival in Laoag
• Tricycle ride to Laoag Centro
• Check-in at Pichay Lodge (corner Primo Lazaro – Hernando St.) – P350 per room per night (fan room with double bed and private CR)
• Room was spacious but was very dirty and not maintained well.
• Sleep: Pichay Lodge

Day 3 – Churches in Greater Laoag, Ilocos Norte Area

• 8:00am – got out of Pichay
• Breakfast at McDo
• Walk along Rizal St.
• 9:00am – Ride jeep to Sarrat, Ilocos Norte – P13
• 9:30am – Arrive in Sarrat
• Sarrat Church photo stop
• Walk to Marcos Museum
• 9:50am – Marcos Museum photo-stop
• Ride jeep to Laoag – P13
• Ride tricycle to Batac, Ilocos Norte – Paoay jeepney stop – P13
• Ride jeep to Paoay, Ilocos Norte – P33
• 11:15am – Arrive in Paoay
• Paoay Church photo-stop
• 12:10nn – Lunch in La Herrencia Cafe
• Bagnet with KBL (Kamatis, Bagoong, Lasona) – P200
• Rice – P20 per cup
• Iced Tea – P45
• Jeep to Batac – P8
• 12:40nn – Arrive in Batac
• Batac Church photo-stop
• Jeep to San Nicolas – P20
• 1:40pm – San Nicolas Church photo-stop
• Jeep to Laoag – P8
• 2:40pm – Loaog Photo stop
• Laoag City Hall
• Ilocos Norte Provincial Capitol
• Laoag Church
• Tricycle to Bacarra jeepney terminal  -P15
• Jeep to Bacarra – P11
• 3:30pm – Arrive in Bacarra
• Bacarra Church photo stop
• Tricycle to highway – P10
• Jeep to Laoag – P11
• Jeep to San Nicolas / Robinsons Place Ilocos Norte – P8
• Dinner at Foodcourt
• Pinakbet + Dinuguan + Rice + Salad – P70

Day 4 – Malacanang of the North and Paoay Lake of Ilocos

• 9:00am – Tricycle ride to plaza area- P15
• Walk to Jeepney terminal / loading station near the approach of the long bridge to San Nicolas (at the McDo side)
• 10:00am – Jeepney ride to Malacanang of the North (30 minutes)  – P20 fare
• Malacangang of the North tour – P20 entrance fee
• Walk to highway
• Tricycle ride to Pichay Lodge – P35 shared charter
• 11:50am –  “check-out” at Pichay Lodge
• Walk to San Nicolas Jeepney terminal
• Ride jeep to Dawang’s restaurant – P8
• Lunch at Dawang’s
• Igado, Pork Adobo, Lauya (Boiled Pork Ribs), Rice, Coke – P103
• 12:30nn – Ride bus to Vigan
• 3:00pm – Arrive in Vigan

I will also post my Ilocos Sur itinerary soon. Subscribe to my feed to receive blog updates .

Don’t leave yet. There’s more!

October 4, 2011 at 8:21 pm

Awesome photos! I really would love to go to Bangui Windmills, hopefully I can go there before the year ends. :-)

October 24, 2011 at 1:16 pm

Hi! Pagudpud drivers are well organized and have their rates fixed. I’d like to recommend Mang Ador Tabangay, a very informative, helpful and punctual driver. Here is his number in case you’d want to schedule in advance! :D

November 11, 2011 at 6:15 pm

Thanks for sharing king arambulo… in general, there are a lot of tricycle drivers offering tours in Pagudpud.

October 24, 2011 at 1:17 pm

ADOR TABANGAY 09487940255

February 1, 2012 at 6:31 pm

So happy to find your site. My friends and I are going to Pagudpud this summer and I’d been searching for travel tips. Thanks for this.

February 2, 2012 at 3:37 am

My pleasure Marjorie ^_^

March 11, 2012 at 12:42 am

Hi There! My friend and I was so happy to find your site, were having a last minute vacation trip-id hehehe in Ilocos and your site is really awesome! I spent almost a day searching for the right blog most of the blogs are like more on the commentary and expensive places to visit, and there you go information overload plus a very cheap yet look so exciting tour! Thank you so much! Looking forward to read more blogs from you! :) Thank you for this!

April 14, 2012 at 12:34 am

Cool! Glad to be of service :D

April 5, 2012 at 3:38 pm

hi. how much did you spend all in all when you went in ilocos norte for 4 days? :)

April 13, 2012 at 11:15 pm

My expenses were around P1K per day. I usually spend more when I’m moving around a lot and less when I just stay put in one area.

May 14, 2012 at 7:18 pm

hiramin ko lang muna tong IT mo. We’re planning to go to laoag sa katapusan ng june.. and can you recommend cheapest hotel.. tiffany hotel-malapit lang ba sya sa mga places sa IT mo?

May 14, 2012 at 7:21 pm

can you give me some tips.. mula sa laoag airport;-)

May 21, 2012 at 10:27 pm

I hope you can help. We’re about 4 families traveling to Ilocos. Our sked is a bit tight because we want to cover as much of Baguio, Ilocos Sur/Norte as much as possibe. We’re from Cagayan de Oro City.

Could you please suggest an itinerary for us (with ETDs and ETAs to and from one place)? We’ll be in Laoag at 9 AM and intend to go to Pagudpud after lunch. We might spend the night in Pagudpud and leave for Cabanatuan after lunch the following day.

Where can we go given the very tight sked?

Please check if this sked is doable. Would appreciate it if you could arrange it so that we do not waste time or miss a place:

9 AM – ETA in Laoag 9 – 2 PM – proceed to the Sinking Bell Tower, Malacanang of the North, Fort Ilocandia, Paoay Church, La Paz Sand Dunes (lunch in between) 2 PM – ETD for Pagudpud 3 PM – ETA in Pagudpud 3-6 PM – proceed to Cape Bojeador, Kapurpurawan, Bangui windmills (overnight stay in Paugpud) 7-11 AM – proceed to Blue Lagoon for short dip (where else can we go afterwards?) 11 AM – 1 PM – lunch 1 PM – depart from Pagudpud

Thanks so much!

Hope you can help…

May 22, 2012 at 8:07 am

woah! yes! i have been to those places and it was awesome. not because my my family originated there, but the scenery and it’s historical places make me fall in love over and over again. i went to bohol and palawan. it made me come to think na may ilalaban ang ilocos province. i recommend a week vacation for you guys to experience the beauty of the north. there are hotels offering low accomodation fees like 900 per day good for 4 to 5 person. fully airconditioned but i can’t guarantee you the perfect service though if you are looking for a place to lay your back. however, there’s a lot of activities to do there, such as sand boarding, water sports activities, snorkling and of course pasyal. hehehe! thanks for posting your blog. nice photos.

November 16, 2012 at 9:35 am

hi sir, just wondering, is it safe to travel to ilocos alone? im planning to go there soon… how many days will i need to maximize most locations? will it be too costly pag maig isa or meron ding cheaper option?

salamat ng madami…

December 4, 2012 at 6:10 pm

I traveled there alone and nothing unfortunate happened to me. The itinerary I posted (encompassing only Ilocos Norte) lasted for four days plus another 2 days for Ilocos Sur. It’s definitely more expensive to travel alone.

December 7, 2012 at 3:40 pm

great blog site. really helpful. will be traveling to Laoag on January 30 with my hubby. Can’t wait to see the windmills. so surprised there are more places we can actually pass by while going there. thanks.

December 28, 2012 at 1:18 am

Yeah, there are lots of interesting places to visit in the area. Safe travels!

December 20, 2012 at 5:17 pm

do you have gmw’s contact nos.? been googling it but couldn’t find one. tnx

March 24, 2013 at 7:42 pm

Thanks this is so helpful! My daughter and I are going this May. Might just DIY this, instead. Exciting.

April 6, 2013 at 4:29 am

hi there, do you still have any contact person that we may talk to, to help us move around ilocos. we’re going there sept of this year. thanks.

April 10, 2013 at 10:01 pm

Marcos – Thanks so much for sharing this information. Based on your tips, I was able to visit the region without any hastle. Your blog is more useful than Lonely Planet! I posted some pictures of my time in Pagupud here: http://www.tenacityinpursuit.com/2012/2015/2/12/between-the-rains-in-the-bacuit-archipelago-el-nido-october-10 Feel free to check them out when you have time. Thanks again!

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Senyorita lakwachera.

• Guided Tour
• Ilocos Accommodation
• Ilocos Norte
• Ilocos Tour
• Travel Guide

Ilocos Tour Complete Itinerary and Expense

Hi! Was Christopher (Teri) Respicio your tour guide in Pagudpod? Do you happen to have his contact number?

Hi Ydel, yes si kuya Teri yung tour guide namin. I will get back to you with his number later. :)

Hi Ydel, sorry natagalan :-) eto po yung number ni kuya teri :-) +63999987966.

hi kulang ung number nung sa contact po.. +63 999 987966 hingi din sana kame :) thanks

Hi! thanks for the catch and sorry for the mistake. Kinulang ako ng 7 :) eto yung buo +63 999 987 9667.

hello there! Is it possible to have a Vigan-Pagudpod Tour for 1 day? I mean lahat ng nakalist on Day 3 and Day 5 all in 1 day, kahit lesser time nalang on each place, we will be coming from pagudpod so yung van's route is Pagudpod-Vigan-Pagudpod. If yes, can you help me figure out the itinerary for that day? Thanks for your help!

Hindi ko iniencourage and 1 day kasi kunting delay lang masisira na yung buong itinerary sa sobrang gipit sa oras, pero ito yung posibility... Start the tour in pagudpud at 6am - 10:30 (mga nasa 15 minutes per destination lang stop nyan. Start from North Pagudpud then south - Expert dapat si tour guide about routing :) Maira Ira Cove - Blue Lagoon (20.00 Peso entrance fee) TIMMANTANG ROCK BANTAY ABOT PARAISO NI ANTON AGUA GRANDE PATPAT VIA DUCT CAPE BOJEADOR LIGHTHOUSE - Burgos, Ilocos Norte KAPURPURAWAN ROCK FORMATION BURGOS BANGUI WINDMILLS (BANGUI) Then Pagudpud to Vigan 11:00AM - 3:00PM (super smooth dapat ang travel para maachieve to - sa van nalang din yung lunch para hindi sayang ang oras kasi you might be tempted to shop sa Heritage Village so advantage if you could maximize the time) Vigan tour: (3:30PM - 6:00PM) Bantay Church and Bell Tower Baluarte ni Chavit Paburnayan Vigan Pottery and Jar Making Hidden Garden Rowilda's Loom Weaving Heritage Village

thank you so much on this~ pero i think i will interchange the itinerary kasi nasa pagudpod na kami.. better na mauna muna Vigan kasi nasa pagudpod yung hotel namin :) super thanks! <3

Hope that helps :) ask ka na rin sa driver nyo he might have better idea. Happy trip!!!

hi again, i believe kuya Teri's number is incomplete :( 0999987966. ~only 10 digits

Hi! thanks for the catch and sorry for the mistake. Kinulang ako ng 7 :) eto yung buo +63 999 987 9667. ;)

Hello po! We're from Pampanga. Balak naming magdrive papuntang Ilocos this month. 13 kami lahat. We're planning na wag nang kumuha ng tour guide para makatipid. Nagreresearch na lang ako para malaman ano magandang puntahan. We'll we be able to enjoy kahit walang tour guide? Also, dun sa comment mo na 20 php entrance fee sa Maira Ira Cove - Blue Lagoon, mapupuntahan na lahat ng lugar na nakaenumerate with just 20 php? Like ung: TIMMANTANG ROCK BANTAY ABOT PARAISO NI ANTON AGUA GRANDE PATPAT VIA DUCT CAPE BOJEADOR LIGHTHOUSE - Burgos, Ilocos Norte KAPURPURAWAN ROCK FORMATION BURGOS BANGUI WINDMILLS (BANGUI) Salamat in advance!

Hello  andami nyo, I bet masayang joyride yan! Kung iniisip mo kung mag eenjoy kayo, masasabi ko is depende, kasi kung close kayo at pareparehas kayo ng trip mag eenjoy talaga kayo with or without a tour guide. Kung tinutukoy mo naman is kung maeenjoy nyo kaya yung destination. I would also have to say na dedpende sa trip nyo kasi kami medyo bet naming yung informative na trip. Mahirap kasing mag appreciate ng mga bagay bagay kung hindi mo alam kung ano yung mga what abouts nito bakit sya dinadayo gaya ng Sta Monica Church . Pero may mga spots naman na hindi kailangan ng tour guide meron din iba na may sarili silang guide gaya ng Juan Luna Shrine . Yung sa Blue Lagoon naman yung spots sa loob nito is yung dos hermanos lang. The rest madadaanan nyo on your way bago pa mag blue lagoon – pero nothing to worry kasi halos lahat naman walang entrance fee (yung kapurpurawan may fee din ata 20 sa naalala ko). Hope that will help :) happy trip!

na try ko ang magjoin sa group tour, which cost us for only 3200/pax tpos may ksama nang roundtrip transfer (manila-ilocos-manila), ksama na ang tour and accommodation. Try nyo itong twagan 09064312166 from 9 am to 5 pm. Try to ask Ms kaysee, sya ang guide nmin. Ang saya

HI, do they have a landline? can i ask for it? thanks..

Yes it is cheaper but that is if you travel with a group of at least 10. What I like about this tour by Christeen is they were able to get a low fare airfares and also they spread out the tour in 7 days which makes it less hectic than the usual 3D/2N trip. However using van for traveling is more comfortable especially going in between towns. And of course, it is cheaper with a group of 10 or more. Riding a trike is a great alternative nevertheless.

Thanks for sharing :)

Welcome dear! Now that Vigan won in the New7Wonder Cities of the World, many more people will flock to Ilocos. For sure tour prices will get higher.

Di na macontact si Teri sa number na yan :(

Hi, We are a group of 4 foreigners students from Manila planning for a 3-day tour Vigan-Laoag-Pagudpud. We plan to take the Sleeper bus from Manila to Vigan/Laoag roundtrip. We plan to leave Manila on friday evening and be back by Tuesday morning ( for our classes...hehe). It would be great if you suggest an itinerary for us. We are a bit budget conscious (of course...being students) but we were also discussing whether it would be better for us to rent a van in Vigan/Laoag/Pagudpud for the 3days tour or have a DIY trip on tricycles and Jeepneys.

Hi there! If I were you, I will definitely choose to rent a van on that way I can exhaust my time. It would be the best way to visit as much places (tourist spots) as you want without exerting too much effort  that might drain your energy for Tuesday class =). This way you might be able to also spare yourself from unexpected expenses. The first one is less effort and less tiring which might also have fewer adventures, if you consider it quite boring. You might consider taking a semi DIY tour, suggestively  Manila-Pagudpud-Laoag-Vigan-Manila Friday Night : Sleeperes buss - Manila Pagudpud (around12-13 hours). Click here for schedule and contact number of bus company. Saturday :  Pagudpud rent a tricycle or van for another tour. Sunday : Pagudpud - Laoag (2.5 hours by bus). Laoag can also be toured using a tricycle but you “might” miss some other destination. Monday “EARLY” morning : Laoag-Vigan (2.5 hours by bus).  In Vigan you can rent a tricycle (around Php400-500) or Carriage (around 800). Vigan-Manila via regular buses, safest travel time allotment is 8-10 hours.

hi we are going there on sept and we are staying sa fort ilocandia, do you think kaya ng half day ung mga destinations sa laoag like Marcos Museum and Mausoleum Paoay Church (can have lunch at Cafe Herencia) Paoay Lake Malacañang of the North La Paz Sand Dunes St. William's Church And Laoag Sinking Bell Tower Burgos Lighthouse (short visit and taking pictures) Please contact me @ [email protected]

pag ba ung mga tour packages, ksama na ang transportation doon sa mga destinations (from terminal to hotels, from hotels to tour spots - vigan, laoag, pagudpud and back to hotels then hotel to terminal)? or kanya kanyang commute sa public transportation kasama ang tour guide which means ang pamasahe ay hindi pa kasama sa tour package na binayaran but from ur pocket (ikaw rin ba magbayad pamasahe ng tour guide na kasama)? mayron bang kasama pang ibang tourist sa iteneraries ng tour packages. who arranges timing ng iteneraries? thanks po.

Yung nakuha namin all in po - kasama na yung transpo from/to airport at hotel. It would be nice to make it clear with the guide before taking the deal :)

thanks Senyorita Lakachwera Christeen. God bless :-)

thanks Senyorita Lakwachera Christeen. God bless you :-)

Gurl, i just like to ask.. my Bf and I are planning to go to Ilocos and its just gonna be the two of us, will it be pretty costly to not avail a package? we particularly wud love to go to Pagudpud only and also some places in Vigan...

Hmmmm kung Pagudpud lang then it’s okay - kasi it’s a very affordable place naman. accommodation can range from 500.00-4500.00 per night for both of you. The tour ranges from 800-2500 depende kung van or tricycle. Food ranges from 50.00-600.00 per meal depende sa food house.

hi madam!i am marlon tour guide in pagudpud asking permission to post my number on your blog.call me at;09302845897,09067960934.tricycle,van for hire,accomodation in saud,and in blue lagoon.all rates negotiable.try my services in a very low low prices.honest and very accomodating tour guide.you can also give your comments sa blog ni bebe phase,go for the north.thank you madam.

Hi, we'll be in Laoag on Nov 19-23. can you give me sample itinerary, maximizing north tour? also some budget hotels, we're a couple and one 14-year old son. thanks a lot!

You have an ample time, so I guess you can follow the Day2, 3, 4 and 5 of my itinerary in any order.

Hi! May list ka rin ba kung saan pwede kumain near Saud beach resort?

Hi Sorry, I don't have a list. I most of time only clude yung mga naexperience ko talaga :)

hi.. what would you suggest na itinerary if we plan to go 9pm (from cebu pac promo. hihi) of jan 14 up to jan17 pm? thanks. 2pax lang kmi eh..

I recomend that you take my DAY2,3 and 5 list then personalized it according to your desired places to visit. :)

Hi.. We're planning to go to ilocos. Would it be possible for us to tour pagudpud-laoag-vigan in just 2 days... We will not avail a tour package.. Is it cheaper that way? Can u suggest an itinerary? Tnx so mch for ur help..

I guess yes - with a tourguide :)

Hi... may mga van for rent going to pagudpod ba along vigan? and how much is the estimated budget?

That I don't know :)

Hi, We booked 8 days stay at Casa Consuelo. Manggagaling kami sa Sagada. We are planning to explore Pagudpud on the 2nd to 5th day, then relax on the 6th till we go back to Manila. Can you suggest an itinerary that will cover Vigan Laoag and Pagudpud? Pano ba pumunta sa Casa Consuelo from Laoag? Thamks :)

hmmmm you can still use my itinerary less of course my accommodations, just be reminded that vigan is five hours away from pagudpud so it might take a lot of your time :)

Hi..can you please help me..ngpplan kz kme ng friends ko ppnta ng laog at pagudpod this coming holy wik..blak nmn webes santo ng gabi aalis s manil.bus lng po kme huh.blk nmn 2days and a nyt lng kme dun..please give itinerary pgpnta dun.need p po b nmn ng tour guide?kung meron keu kkilala n tour guide bgyan you me ng contact sa knya tnx..uhm pede budget friendly dn po huh tnx.

Hello po, May I kindly post my tour package(ilocos, baguio, anawangin,calaguas)ads here in your reputable blog. Please check our facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/laskwatserong.oragon Contact numbers: 09362946145 ; 09103704189

hi there!!!can i ask you your contact nuber,,coz we are planning to go there this summer..but we want the tour for 3days and 2 nights only,,thank you!!

Hi there! Thanks for your informative blog. I and a colleague plan to undertake an Ilocos tour this coming 15-18 May 2014. If the flight from Manila arrives and leaves Laoag as scheduled, we will actually have 2 half days (Thursday and Sunday) and 2 full days. We'd appreciate suggestions on places to visit given our schedule. Kindly note that our interest are historical sites and old churches and similar architectural places. Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

thanks for dropping by, you may follow my itinerary for days 2,3&5 :) enjoy and have a safe trip!

Hello! Is it possible to have a tour of vigan laoag pagudpud in 1 day? We are planning to have a trip on May 2st etd 7pm what is the possible eta? We are riding a car. We want to stay long in Pagudpod thanks in advance!

Hello! Good day! We're planning to visit vigan laoag pagudpud on May 22 is it possible that we can have a day tour on that day we are leaving manila at May21 8pm what is the possible time of eta? We'll be riding a car thank you in advance!

Hi there! kunting info lang po. will be on ilocos on june 20. ng rent po kme ng van from manila to vigan-laoag-pagudpud back to manila. 10 kme at were sharing 3k para sa accommodation/transpo/entrance/4x4 ride even 2 breakfast. instead of rent a packages kung gusto nyo manggaling mula dito sa mnila try to find a van/ tour guide kc mas mbaba po cla mangingil kesa sa mga packages. nakuha po namin n van ung ng totour din po plagi sa ilocos.. thanks

thanks for sharing ;)

Hi! Love the itinerary that you posted..my bf and I are planning a 3 day tour in pagudpud, vigan and ilocos..its gonna be our first time to travel..galing pa kami ng Cebu so time is a major factor sa trip namin..is there any itinerary you can suggest for us na cheap but worth it sa trip namin? Or a tour guide that can help us..I would appreciate your suggestions...thanks!---Conz from Cebu

Hello :) Sorry this was late but just incase you still haven't have the idea, kuya glenn is our tour guide that time, for cheaper option we stayed at his place too. You may get all his details and the accommodation he offers on the link below. http://www.senyoritalakwachera.com/2013/02/our-homestay-in-laoag.html

Hi Christeen, Can you recommend itinerary for vigan-laoag-pagudpud? We will arrive vigan 7AM, Friday and will depart Saturday night going Manila. I appreciate your help. Thanks!

Hi! you may utilize my Day 2,3 and 5 itinerary, just pick the places you'd love to prioritize since I don't think it would all fit in that short trip. You may also get a tour guide to make the most out of your time.

you dont include the expenses from Laoag to Manila airfare

kasama na po kasi yun sa 1,500.00 na ticket price ng MNL-Laoag :) Roundtrip kasi nabili namin.

you don't include the Laoag to Manila airfare in expenses, thanks

Hi! may masasakyan pa po ba na jeep or tricycles from Laoag Airport to city proper ng 10PM? Is it still safe ng ganung time? Baka po kasi walang pick up from airport yung makuha nming accomodation. Thanks!

nung punta namin, marami pa naman masasakyan ng ganyang oras at me free bus ride going to Laoag proper at sa mga known hotels na prinovide ng government. free shuttle ride were scheduled based dun sa mga oras ng flight thought we haven't tried it. sa safety naman the place looks generally safe :)

Pwde po ba malaman tel number ng me ari ng van na si glenn tolentino.. tyVm

Hi!! Please check the link below for kuya glenns details. http://www.senyoritalakwachera.com/2013/02/our-homestay-in-laoag.html#.dpuf

Good day Christeen, may FB account kaya si Sir glen para ma-message ko?

yes, his contact details were here. http://www.senyoritalakwachera.com/2013/02/our-homestay-in-laoag.html

Ang galing talaga ng pagkakapresent mo ng information about Ilocos dito sa blog mo. Even a travel agency like us, have learned so much about it. Two thumbs up and keep up the very good work!

Thanks you :)

Good day Christeen =) Maraming salamat sa pag share mo ng Ilocos itinerary mo. Laking tulong nung mga infos sa trip namin ng family ko next year. May query lang ako, upon arrival nyo sa Laoag airport, included na ba yung transfers from the airport to Laoag Homestay? Worried lang ako kasi may makaka sama ako na elderly and medyo late na din arrival ng flight. Thanks much in advance for your response. =)

Hi, your welcome po :) its always my pleasure to help other travelers. Re. arrival in Laoag airport, Kuya Glenn - our tourguide was kind enough to include it dun sa homestay namin. I am not sure though if same goes with the others but you can always check with them before closing deals :)

Hello Christeen. May questions ako: Ok lang ba to visit Vigan 1st then Paoay and Pagupud? My family and I will take a 6 days vacation in Ilocos. Appreciate much your suggestions.

Hi :) Yup that's South to North magandang idea po yan :) happy trip sa inyo!!

hi! great help po yung nishare mo na itenerary. any suggestion po for early january trip for 3-4 weekdays trip? Thank you!

Hi! Any recommended tourguide? Thanks po

hi ms christeen , me and my boyfriend planning to go to vigan this coming jan 15 2015 , ask ko lang if pwede kaya kame mag stay kay kuya glen's house coz its 350 per night right? malapit ba sya sa mga tourist spot sa vigan thank you :))

Yup, I believe you can stay there, check mo lang if me vacant since marami din nagpapatour sa kanya. then for the tourist spots, I've noticed that most of them are far from each other which may take time if your not in a guided tour.

This has been very helpful. Thank you very much! :)

Thanks ♥

Hi teen :-) aris from laguna , magkano kaya ang tour guide for pagudpud laoag ng vigan trip nd suggest k nman ng cheap accomodation for our ilocos trip for jan 19-23 ... Salamat :-)

hmmmm I haven't checked if they do pick-up from Laguna :| but you may contact them directly. I can only suggest for kuya glenn since sya lang yung na try naming. But I've heard a lot na same na rin yung service :) I cant guide you to specific nga lang.

Hi ate, okay lang ba sundin yung itenerary mo po from day 2 to day 5 if 3D/2N kami dun kay sir glenn? And wer planning to take GV ng Feb 26 ng gabi then Feb27 ng morning namin gagawin yung Day 2 itenerary mo? :) Pwede po kaya yun? Wer couple po :) Thanks!

Hi Khim :) yes that's fine. Just make sure to be very timely para hindi kayo magipit sa oras. Enjoy your trip! Be safe!

Hi Christeen, me and my husband are planning to visit laoag, vigan and pagudpud for 5days but without tour guide. Paano ung transpo going to other places and magkakalayo ba ung tourist spot? Sa travel agency kc 3days 2nights lang. thanks!

hell :) It would be hard not to have a tour guide because spots are far from each other. There are tricycles thought that you can hire.

Hi Christeen, me and my husband are planning to visit laoag,vigan and pagudpud for 5 days but without tour guide. Paano ung transpo going to other places and magkakalayo ba ung tourist spot. Sa travel agency kc 3days 2nights lang. thanks!

Hi Christeen. Possible ba na ma tour ang pagudpud,laoag and vigan for one day for selected spot lng? thank you. hope to hear yo soon...

Hi Miss Christeen.. Possible ba na ma tour namin ang Pagudpud,laoag And Vigan for 1 day? kahit selected spot lng mapuntahan namin? hope to hear you soon,......

No, I don't think so :|

I have been there too. Ilocos and Baguio in a 5 day trip. visit my blog for tips http://sowhatright.blogspot.com/2015/01/going-north-ilocos-baguio.html

Wow! been planning to do that route too!! nice you did :)

Hello mam Christeen... Padaan lang sa blog mo.. Tnx... Dami pong guest ilocos...

thanks :) hope you can drop your name so that I can address you properly :)

Hi miss! Thankyou for your very informative blog! anw, It is a big help for us tourism students. I just want to ask, I was assign to make a travel package to ILOCOS and im wondering if 3500 would be enough for the budget in the said package? (With transpo from manila by land, Entrance fees, Accommodations na hindi masyadong mahal,special interests) Im still not sure with the meal kung kaya mainclude. Pls reply. Your advice would be a big help. Thankyou again! More travels for you this 2015!!

This comment has been removed by the author.

Hi there! Ask ko lang po if saan kayo nakakuha ng trike para sa vigan tour? And we'll be traveling this july, 3D2N coming from Cebu. IT sana namin is we'll arrival in MNL sa morning. Take the 8am trip of farinas transit going to ilocos. Overnight in vigan to experience night and day there. Vigan tour saturday morning (just like where you went to). Travel to loaog after (same day, saturday). Overnight in loaog. Sunday morning, travel to Bangui windmill then travel back to MNL. Kakayanin kaya? Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks!

Hello :) dami trike sa Vigan, lahat ng bumibiyahe dun ata are all offering tours eh. regarding your planned route i guess kaya. mag hire nalang kayo ng tour guide for Laoag and Pagudpud to save time :) hope that helps!

Hi there! Ask ko lang po paano kayo nakakuha ng trike para sa vigan tour? And do you know if mga ilang oras byahe from vigan to laoag? Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks!

Hello Christeen. Ask ko lang po if you have another contact number for Teri Respicio. Di po kasi nagre reply. =( also, wud like to ask if may transpo from caparispisan to balaoi pagudpud. stay sana kami sa caparispisan side then visit hannahs for day tour. cencia na for my numerous requests kasi very first time namin family ko mag travel sa Ilocos. Thank you for your patience =)

hello Senyora Lakwachera, I would just like to ask, do you know any decent van rental good for 8 persons from manila->ilocos destination? thanks a lot

Hello!!! Ask ko lang ano maganda itinerary na madadaanan ang Bangui, Kapurpurawan, Paoay Church, Sand dunes and vigan? Thanks!!!! :)

Hello Christeen! :) may balak po sana kami ng boyfriend ko na mag-backpacking sa ilocos ng 3 days and 2 nights this coming holy week. vigan, bangui and pagudpod. please help me with the itinerary ung swak lang sa budget and travel by bus. from manila lang kami. please reply. :) thank you!

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Hi nice blog! Very informative and detailed.. Just a question lng po, I just wonder kung san part ng pagudpud mas ok mag stay? Saud beach or blue lagoon? Ty

Hi. Kung gusto niyo ng mas magandang view and mas maraming activity na pwedeng magawa, I would suggest you to stay at Blue Lagoon where Hannah's is located. But if you want cheaper room accommodation, stay in Saud

Hi po.. would like to ask your tour guide's contact details. Thanks po!

Hi. My family and I are headed to Vigan on March 23. I've already booked a hotel for 4D3N in Vigan because initially I just thought of just exploring Vigan. However, now I am thinking of going to Pagudpud and Laoag also. Can you suggest an itinerary for us considering the restraint we have (hotel accommodation is in Vigan)? We plan to leave Manila at 4am on Mar 23 and we'll be bringing our car. Thanks :)

Hi. My family and I are going to Vigan on Mar 23. We already booked a hotel for 4D3N in Vigan because the initial plan was to just explore Vigan. Now, we are thinking of exploring Laoag and Pagudpud also. Can you suggest an itinerary for us on how we can explore Vigan, Laoag, and Pagudpud for 4D3N considering the restraint we have (our accommodation is in Vigan the entire stay)? We plan to leave Manila on Mar 23 at 4am. Thanks

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Hi maam teen,have a nice time.😊pa post po.I'm Jomar Villaluz from blue lagoon beach,Pagudpud. I offer trike tour,van for Vigan,Laoag and Pagudpud tour and transient house for accommodation.good price and good service... Please don't hesitate to contact me at my cp no. 09159074537 for globe and 09203183945 for smart...thank you very much and God bless po....

Hi po.. nagpaplan po.kmi ng family ko this jan 2 sa pagudpod mga 7 person, may dala kami sasakyan.. ano po ba magandang punthan dun in 2 days at san ang affordable na matutulugan.. ok lng kya kung wala nang tour guide? Tnx

Kung me sasakyan kayo yup okay lang na walang tourguide. yung maganda eh medyo subjective. depende sa kung ano ang bet nyo ;)

Hi Teng, Me and my Fiance are planning to travel in Ilocos, nabasa namin itong blog mo. I was wondering what you can suggest like best places in Ilocos :). We are planning to ride on a bus with our own trip para mas solo namin yung time. Looking forward to hear something about your suggestions. Kindly send it to my email if possible. [email protected] Thank you! God bless!

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Saud Beach, Pagudpud Ilocos Norte

Lifestyle and Travel writer from the Philippines

Ultimate DIY Travel Guide to Ilocos Norte

Discover one of Philippine’s top tourist destinations – Ilocos Norte .

Ilocos Norte is a province located in the northernmost part of Luzon, the largest island in the Philippines. The province is known for its unique culture, breathtaking scenery, and friendly people. From ancient churches and museums to breathtaking natural wonders and adrenaline-pumping outdoor activities, Ilocos Norte has something for every kind of traveler.

In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the best places to visit in Ilocos Norte. So, if you are looking for an ultimate travel guide to Ilocos Norte, this post is for you.

Travel Requirements to Ilocos Norte

Based on the current news, there are no travel requirements. Check out Ilocos Norte’s official media pages for any updates on travel requirements.

• Ilocos Norte Tourism

How to get to Ilocos Norte?

Getting to Ilocos Norte is easy as there are many options available for every traveler.

By Airplane to Ilocos Norte from Manila

There are two airlines that flies to Ilocos Norte: Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines .

Cebu Pacific

Philippine Airlines

By Bus to Ilocos Norte from Manila

There are 4 Bus Lines that travels to Ilocos Norte: .

Terminals/s:

• Cubao: 816 Aurora Boulevard, Cubao,  Quezon City
• Sampaloc: Bgy 488, Zone 048, 1716 Vicente Cruz St, Sampaloc, Manila

*Sleeper with CR buses

Terminal/s:

• Sampaloc: 832 AH Lacson Ave. Cor. Earnshaw St. Sampaloc, Manila.

Maria De Leon Transportation Inc.

Sampaloc: Dapitan Street Sampaloc, Manila (Back of University of Santo Tomas)

Sampaloc: 1238 Lacson Ave. Sampaloc, Manila

By private car to Ilocos Norte from Manila

You can also reach Ilocos Norte by driving a private car or by renting a private van.

The ride is approximately 8-9 hours from Balintawak Toll Gate to Laoag city. Ride duration varies as it’s dependent on current traffic situation and stop overs.

The quickest route to Ilocos Norte is through North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), then take the exit to SCTEX/Clark Airport. From there, take the Tarlac-Pangasinan-La Union Expressway (TPLEX).

Where to stay in Ilocos Norte?

There are plenty of accommodation choices in Ilocos Norte. The Ilocos Norte tourism office released an official list of accredited accommodation. Read more about them here.

For some specific recommendations, see my curated list below:

• Playa Tropical
• Amici Resort Hotel
• Fort Ilocandia
• Rivermount Hotel and Resort
• Asaricha Tropical Beach Resort
• Century Gardens Hotel
• Rio Grande de laoag Resort Hotel and Nature Park
• Hotel Asuncion
• Casa Paraiso
• North Stellar Hotel and Events Place
• Treasure Trove Resort
• Villa Andrea Beach Resort
• Casadeoasay
• Ilyn’s Homeyplace & Foodhaws
• Abiong Transient House
• Brookside Laoag Ilocos Norte
• Ilocandia Guest House
• Our Vessel Bed and Breakfast
• Sitio Remedios Heritage Village Resort
• Triangle Huts Pagudpud

How to get around Ilocos Norte?

By private cars and vans – If you don’t have a private car but want to rent one, you may rent private cars and vans through the accredited transportation partner ( Ilocos Norte Travel Agencies Association ), your hotel and/or tour operator.

There are plenty of provincial buses in Ilocos Norte.

• Ordinary buses are a budget-friendly mode of travel. They typically do not have air conditioning and often rely on natural ventilation through open windows and doors to keep passengers cool during the journey. (Minimum charge Php 45)
• Air Conditioned buses provide a more comfortable ride as it has air-con inside. This is very important since the Philippines is a humid country. (Minimum charge Php 100)

By Jeepney​

Jeepney is a popular PUV (public utility vehicle) in the Philippines. It is known for its vibrant and colorful design. This is commonly use for short to medium-distance travel within cities and towns. (Minimum fare Php 12 for the first 4 km)

By Tricycle

Tricycle is a  three-wheeled vehicle typically used for short-distance travel within a local area. (Minimum fare Php 20 for the first kilometer)

Calesa is a traditional horse-drawn carriage that was once a common mode of transportation in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial era.

What to eat in Ilocos Norte?

If you enjoy exploring new flavors, prepare your taste buds for an Ilocano culinary adventure. Ilocos Norte boasts a gastronomic heritage that is both rich and diverse.  Mangantayon! (Let’s eat!) Here are my few picks of must-try food in Ilocos Norte:

It is a deep-fried pastry filled with a mixture of savory ingredients. The traditional filling for Ilocos empanada typically includes the following key ingredients: Vigan longganisa, grated green papaya, togue, and egg.

Pinakbet pizza is a creative fusion dish that combines the flavors of the traditional Filipino vegetable dish called “pinakbet” with the popular Italian pizza. 

In the case of pinakbet pizza, the traditional ingredients of pinakbet are used as toppings on a pizza crust. These toppings can include a variety of vegetables like eggplant, okra, squash, string beans, and bitter melon, all of which are commonly used in pinakbet.

Vegetables:

Pinakbet is a dish made from mixed vegetables and shrimp paste, typically flavored with garlic, onions, and sometimes pork or shrimp.

Pinakbet features a mix of fresh vegetables, which can vary depending on regional preferences and seasonal availability. Common vegetables used in pinakbet include eggplant, okra, string beans (sitaw), bitter melon (ampalaya), squash or pumpkin (kalabasa), and tomato.

Poqui-Poqui is a flavorful and hearty vegetable dish made primarily from grilled or roasted eggplants, which are then sautéed with garlic, onions, tomatoes, and beaten eggs. The result is a savory and slightly smoky dish with a creamy texture.

Dinengdeng is a simple and nutritious dish known for its use of various fresh vegetables and fish, often seasoned with bagoong (shrimp paste) or other condiments for flavor. Dinengdeng is a classic example of Filipino “sabaw” or soupy dishes, and it is popular among those who appreciate the flavors of Filipino home cooking.

Meat Dishes:

Bagnet is a deep-fried crispy pork belly, and it’s often compared to pork cracklings (chicharon).

Papaitan is a dish known for its strong and distinctive flavors, particularly its bitter and savory taste. The name “papaitan” is derived from the Filipino word “pait,” which means bitter. One of the key ingredients in papaitan is the bile, which is usually sourced from the gallbladder of the animal being cooked. The bile is added to the soup to provide the distinct bitter flavor. It is crucial to balance the amount of bile used to avoid an overly bitter taste.

Dinakdakan  is a flavorful and savory dish made primarily from grilled or boiled pork parts, typically the ears, face, and tongue, which are then chopped into small pieces.

Dinakdakan is known for its rich and creamy texture, as well as its bold flavors.

Igado is often described as a type of pork and liver stew. The primary ingredients of igado are pork and pork liver. Both the pork and liver are cut into thin strips or small pieces. The use of pork liver gives the dish its distinctive flavor and texture.

Dudol is made from glutinous rice (malagkit), coconut milk, and sugar, and it is known for its sweet, creamy, and sticky texture. 

Tupig is a traditional Filipino rice cake that is often enjoyed as a snack or dessert, especially during special occasions and festivals. It is a sweet and sticky treat made primarily from glutinous rice, coconut, and sugar. Tupig is typically prepared by grilling or roasting, which gives it a unique texture and flavor.

Where to eat in Ilocos Norte?

• Linamnam Plates  | View their menu here
• Kang Kang Windmill Café
• Cafe Ilocandia  
• Cusina de Iloco
• Eagle’s Nest Restaurant | View their menu here
• La Preciosa  
• Bergblick Restaurant | View their menu here
• Hakuna Matata
• Ikani Resort | View their menu here
• Kapuluan Vista Resort Restaurant  
• La Cocina de Consuelo at Casa Consuelo
• Pannzian Resort | View their menu here
• Kamarinn Cafe
• Smoke Bar and Restaurant | View their menu here
• Farm house Kitchen

San Nicolas:

• Ladrillos | View their menu here

What to see and do in Ilocos Norte?

Cultural heritage structure.

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, also known as Burgos Lighthouse, is a cultural heritage structure in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, established during the Spanish Colonial period in the Philippines.

This lighthouse, with brick walls as is the style of many other lighthouses in the country, is one of the highest elevated Spanish colonial lighthouses in the Philippines.

It still functions as an active and welcoming flair to ships that enter the Philippine Archipelago from the North.

The Malacanang of the North is a historical mansion in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, built in 1977 as a rest house for the former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. and his family. 

The Tobacco Monopoly Monument is a historical landmark in Laoag, Ilocos Norte, that commemorates the end of the tobacco monopoly during the Spanish colonial era.

Museo Ilocos Norte is a famous cultural museum in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, known for showcasing the rich cultural heritage and history of the Ilocos region. The museum’s collection includes artifacts, photographs, and other historical items that tell the story of Ilocos Norte’s evolution from its pre-colonial period to the present day. 

The Juan Luna Shrine is a national museum in Badoc, Ilocos Norte. It is the ancestral house of the Luna family, built in the 1850s and dedicated to the life and works of renowned Filipino painter Juan Luna. 

Tourist Attraction

Known as the 4th largest bridge in the Philippines, the Patapat Viaduct is a 1.3km long bridge located in Ilocos Norte. It stretches along the northern coastline and connects the municipalities of Pagudpud and Adams. It is known for its breathtaking coastline view, surrounded by lush mountains and greenery.

The Bangui Windmills are a group of 20 wind turbines located in Bangui, Ilocos Norte. This was constructed in 2005 to generate renewable energy and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Natural Wonder

Located near Patapat Viaduct, Bantay Abot Cave is another popular tourist spot. The cave is a natural rock formation that resembles a hole in the mountain created by the sea eroding the rocky coastline over time. 

The Sand Dunes of Paoay, Ilocos Norte is a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can enjoy thrilling off-road adventures such as sandboarding, ATV rides, 4×4 jeep tours, and scenic views during sunset. Adventure seekers can also take horseback rides or watch a kite-flying display.

Dubbed as the “Boracay of the North,” Saud beach in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte is a popular tourist destination. It’s known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand. 

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation is a unique landscape of white limestone rock formations in Burgos, Ilocos Norte. It has been shaped by the forces of wind and water over millions of years.

Paoay Lake is a natural freshwater lake in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, known for its scenic beauty and unique geological features. It is about 1.8 km long and 1.2 km wide, surrounded by lush forests and hills. The lake is believed to have been formed by earthquakes in the 17th century or a volcanic eruption in the past.

Anuplig Falls is a natural wonder located in the province of Ilocos Norte. To reach the falls, visitors will need to trek through the forest for around 45 minutes and can enjoy various flora and fauna species along the way. Anuplig Falls offers a breathtaking sight of cascading waterfalls, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation.

Kabigan Falls is a 80 feet tall falls and has a refreshing natural pool for swimming. Local guides are available to assist visitors during the trek, and the area is perfect for relaxing and having a picnic.

Agua Grande River Park features a pristine river with crystal-clear water, surrounded by lush vegetation and towering trees

Kalbario-Patapat Natural Park spans 32,000 hectares. It features two mountain ranges, Kalbario and Patapat, which offer challenging hiking trails and scenic coastal views. The park is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna and several indigenous communities with rich cultural traditions. 

Paoay Church, also known as Saint Augustine Church, is an 18th-century Baroque-style church in Paoay, Ilocos Norte. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its massive coral stone buttresses that reinforce the structure during earthquakes, intricate facade designs, and impressive interior with stained glass windows, murals, and a golden altar. 

The Sinking Bell Tower is a famous tourist attraction in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte, known for its inclination due to being built on sandy soil. It was constructed in 1707 as part of St. William’s Cathedral. It has undergone several restorations over the centuries.

St. William’s Cathedral, also known as the Laoag Cathedral, is a cathedral built in 1612 and features a unique fusion of Gothic, Baroque, and Oriental architecture. Its bell tower is one of the tallest in the Philippines.

Bacarra Church, also known as St. Andrew the Apostle Church, is a popular tourist spot in Bacarra, Ilocos Norte. Built-in 1593, it is one of the oldest churches in the province and boasts a mix of Baroque and Gothic architecture. It features a unique ivory retablo and is a popular pilgrimage site for Catholics. 

La Virgen Milagrosa Chapel is a Baroque-style chapel in Badoc, Ilocos Norte. Built in 1591, it houses a miraculous statue of the Virgin Mary and serves as a pilgrimage site for devotees.

Suggested Itineraries

Ilocos Norte’s tourism office released a helpful suggested itineraries so you can get most out of your vacation in Ilocos Norte. Here are some of them:

• Kite Surfing in Kaparispisan
• Surfing in Balaoi
• Kapurpurawan Rock Formation
• Ilocos Norte Windmills & Solar Plant
• Pagudpud Saud Beach
• Kabigan Falls
• Patapat Viaduct-Hydro Power Plant
• Bacarra Church (NT)
• Pasuquin Salt Making
• Burgos Lighthouses (NT)
• Dumalneg Tribal Center
• Laoag Cathedral and Bell Tower (NT)
• San Nicolas Church (ICP)
• Batac Church
• Paoay Church (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Minor Basilica of Badoc
• La Milagrosa Chapel
• Sarrat Church (ICP)
• Piddig Flower Farm
• Solsona-Apayao Road
• Dingras Church
• Banna Food and Crafts
• Nueva Era Eco-Cultural Park
• Vintar River Sports
• Sand Dunes 4×4 & Sandboarding
• Paoay Lake Water Park
• Snorkeling at Currimao Coral Formations
• Badoc Island
• Laoag City Center
• Malacañang of the North
• Marcos Presidential Center
• Batac Empanada
• San Nicolas Plaza
• Sarrat Birthplace
• Marcos Hall of Justice
• Marcos Presidential Center-Batac
• Abel, Pinili and Paoay
• San Nicolas Damili
• Currimao Tupig
• Pinili Garlic & Onions

Sample 4 Day DIY Itinerary with Budget Breakdown

As a tropical country, we only have two seasons – dry and wet.

Dry season is from November to April while Wet season is from May to October.

I highly recommend to visit Ilocos Norte during the dry season. Anyday between November to April.

• Gameng Festival
• Tadek Festival
• Guling-Guling Festival
• Pul-oy Festival
• Pamulinawen Festival
• Binakol Festival
• Ani Festival
• Mannalon Festival
• Tadek Bagat Festival 
• Bado-Badoc Festival
• Paagwawagi Festival
• Amian Festival
• Kangayedan Festival
• Bawang Festival
• Dinaklisan Festival 
• Magdadaran Talip Gestival 
• Empanada Festival
• Bac-Bacarra Festival 
• Pinagabu-os Festival
• Panag-sana Festival
• Basi Festival
• Damili Festival
• Siwawer Festival

Iloko (Ilocano) is the common language, although English and Filipino are widely used.

Here are some helpful Ilocano phrases that you can use as a tourist:

Good Morning – Naimbag nga bigat yo, Apo 

Good Afternoon – Naimbag nga malem yo, Apo

Good Evening – Naimbag nga rabii yo, Apo

How are you? – Kumusta kayo, Apo? 

POLITE EXPRESSIONS

Please – Pangaasim man 

Thank you – Dios ti agngina 

You are welcome – Awan anyaman na 

Come again – Umay kayto manen 

Yes/ No – Wen/ Saan 

Sir/Ma’am – Apo 

ASKING DIRECTIONS

How to get to… – Kasano ti mapan diay…? 

How far – Adayo? 

IN THE MARKET

I want to buy a … – Kayat ko ti gumatang ti… 

Expensive! – Nagnginan! 

No discount? – Awan tawar nan?

The Philippine’s official currency is Php (Philippine Pesos). General conversion would be roughly 50 Php per 1 US Dollar. Cash is widely accepted in any establishment.

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Published by Abby Roman

Hello! I'm Frecelynne — a lifestyle and travel writer from the Philippines since 2011. View all posts by Abby Roman

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Ilocos Itinerary: Three Days and Two Nights in Laoag, Vigan and More

Travel back in time and explore the best of Ilocos Region with its centuries-old chuches, heritage towns, sand dunes, waterfalls, mouthwatering delicacies and other attractions, the Provinces of Ilocos will definitely not disappoint. Here is a suggested three days and two nights itinerary from Laoag to Vigan and beyond for those who want to experience or re-experience the timeless charm of Ilocandia.

Ilocos Itinerary

Day 0: departure.

2000H: Depart by bus from Cubao

Day 1: Laoag

0800H – 0830H: Arrive in Laoag / Proceed to hotel to leave bags 0830H – 0930H: Breakfast at Cuisine de Iloco 0930H – 1200H: Stroll in and around the historic plaza: see the sinking bell tower, St. William’s Cathedral, Provincial Capitol, Tobacco Monopoly Monument and Museo Ilocos Norte 1200H – 1300H: Lunch at Saramsam Ylocano Restaurant 1300H – 1500H: Rest at hotel / Waash-up 1500H – 1800H: La Paz Sand Dunes 1800H – 1900H: Back at hotel / Wash-up 2000H onwards: Dinner at Kahel de Luna / Socials / Lights off

Day 2: Paoay and Santa Maria

0600H – 0800H: Call time / coffee / pack-up / check-out / proceed to jeepney terminal 0800H – 0830H: Laoag to Paoay 0830H – 1000H: Explore Paoay Church / Breakfast at Herencia Cafe 1000H – 1200H: Proceed to Bus Stop / Paoay to Vigan 1200H – 1300H: Check-in at hotel / Rest 1300H – 1400H: Lunch in Cafe Leona 1400H – 1800H: Proceed to Santa Maria Church and Pinsal Falls 1800H – 1900H: Return to hotel / Wash-up 1900H onwards: Dinner at Lampong’s Restaurant / Night walk at Calle Crisologo, Socials /Lights off

Day 3: Vigan

0500H – 0600H: Blue hour at Calle Crisologo 0600H – 0730H: Breakfast! Empanada! 0730H – 1200H: Vigan Cathedral, Calle Crisologo, Simbaan a Bassit, St. Augustine Chuch of Bantay, Crisologo Museum, Father Burgos Residence and Museum, Religious Museum, Leona Florentino Ancestral House, Fil-Hispanic Friendship Park, Buridek Museum, etc. 1200H – 1400H: Lunch / Proceed to Bus Terminal 1400H: Departure for Manila

How to Get to Ilocos

Manila to ilocos.

Laoag is a 6 to 8-hour ride from Manila while Vigan is 8 to 9 hours. Several bus lines serve the route including Florida Bus Line, Partas Liner, Baliwag Transit and Fariñas Transit. The trip is via North Luzon Expressway and Manila North Road passing through the provinces of Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, Pangasinan, La Union and fare is around P400 – P700.

By air, Philippine Airlines and Cebu Pacific fly to Laoag daily from Manila, travel time is an hour. From Laoag International Airport.

You can book your bus or plane ticket from Manila to Laoag and vice versa below.

BOOK YOUR BUS/PLANE FROM MANILA TO LAOAG

Clark to Ilocos

For those coming from Diosdado Macapagal International Airport in Clark Field, Pampanga, ride the shuttle or jeepney going to Dau Integrated Bus Terminal, fare is around P50. In Dau Terminal, look for buses going to Vigan and Laoag.

Baguio to Ilocos

There are numerous departures (buses and vans) daily from Baguio City Bus Terminal to Vigan and Laoag, travel time is not more than four hours, fare ranges from P200 – P300.

You can book your bus ticket from Baguio to Laoag and vice versa below.

BOOK YOUR BUS FROM BAGUIO TO LAOAG

Tuguegarao to Ilocos

If you’re coming from Tuguegarao, GMW Liner and Florida Liner operate buses to Laoag, fare is not more than P300.

Where to Stay in Laoag & Vigan

Top rated hotels in laoag, top-rated budget accommodations in laoag, top rated hotels in vigan, top-rated budget accommodations in vigan.

*Originally Published: 01-Jul-2012 | Updates: 26-Apr-2018; 09-Apr-2020

DIY TRAVEL GUIDE IN ILOCOS NORTE

Visiting the northernmost province of luzon island for your upcoming trip, we created this diy travel guide in ilocos norte..

Ilocos Norte, a northwest Luzon province renowned for its striking coastline and distinctive terrains, is a popular vacation destination due to its old and new buildings coexisting harmoniously. While historic buildings proudly stand among the developed areas. Ilocos Norte is also famous for being the home province of Ferdinand Marcos, the Philippines’ longest-serving president.

Table of Contents

HOW TO GET TO ILOCOS NORTE

From Cubao, Pasay or Sampaloc, take a bus going to Laoag. It takes around 9 to 12 hours from Manila via land or air via Philippine Airlines, the only passenger airline that operates in Laoag City it will take you to Laoag within 45 minutes.

From Manila Buses:   Fare is ₱1,100 +/- ● FARINAS – Manila (02) 731-4507 | Aircon WiFi ● GV FLORIDA – Manila (02) 781-5849 | Aircon WiFi ● MARIA DE LEON – Manila (0916) 717-2545 & (0909) 344-9661 | Aircon WiFi ● PARTAS – Manila (02) 743-3242 | Pasay (02) 852-8194 | Cubao (02) 727-8275 | Aircon WiFi ● VIRON TRANSIT – Manila (02) 741-6588 & (02) 731-8620 & (02) 726-7409 | Aircon WiFi

From Baguio Buses: Fare is ₱550.00 +/- ● FARINAS – Gov. Pack Road | Aircon WiFi ● PARTAS – Gov. Pack Road | (074) 444-8431 | Aircon ● FLORIDA – Bokawkan Road, Baguio City | 0967 337 1834

WHAT TO SEE IN ILOCOS NORTE

Here are our lists of the Top Tourist Spots in Ilocos Norte updated year 2022.

• Ilocos Norte-Apayao Road – On a trip to the Ilocos Norte-Apayao route, adventurers had discovered a similar location between the boundaries of Barangays Manalpac in Solsona town and Butao in Calanasan, Apayao, about 40 kilometers from Laoag.

• Graciano’s Cove – The cliffs  and large waves will enhance this location’s charm. It feels as though you are in Hawaii with this breathtaking scenery. 

• Paoay Lake Waterpark – a 4200sqm or equivalent to 10 baseketball courts is located in Paoay lake. It offers different kinds of water activities like Sunny Slides, Human Launcher, Tarzan Swings and an inflatable pool suitable for all ages.

• Paoay Church – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, if you travel to the north. About 19 km southwest of Laoag, the church, also known as the San Agustin Church.

• Paoay Sand Dunes – Along Ilocos Norte’s eastern coast, the Paoay Sand Dunes are a well-liked geological attraction and tourist destination. The entire region, which is around 88 square kilometers, is well known as a fantastic location for sandboarding and 4×4 jeep drives across the sand. You can get an adrenaline rush while driving a 4×4 across the dunes and across the rugged terrain in this area. 

• Malacañang of the North – This enormous, intricately built palace with its expansive grounds blends Ilocano and Spanish architectural styles. The ultimate result is fairly imposing, and one of its best qualities is the breathtaking vista from the house, which looks out over meticulously maintained gardens and the lovely Paoay Lake.

• Bangui Windmills – Numerous tourists visit Bangui Windmills, especially in the summer. Obtaining a stunning photograph beneath one of the enormous windmills is free of charge. Visit the windmill farm throughout the day specially during sunsets if you want to see the breathtaking windmill attraction.

• Saud Beach Pagudpud – Travel+Leisure, a New York-based travel publication, named Saud Beach in Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, as one of the 25 Most Beautiful Beaches in the World.

• Patapat Viaduct – The Philippines’ fourth-longest bridge is this one. The Patapat serves as the Maharlika Highway’s continuation and connects the rest of the Ilocos Region to the Cagayan Valley.

• Kapurpurawan Rock Formation – The magnificent Kapurpurawan Rock is located right at the edge of the coast, with the azure water serving as its backdrop. People visit this location to admire the rock and take pictures. 

READ FULL ARTICLE: Top 9 Tourist Spots in Ilocos Norte

BEST TIME TO VISIT ILOCOS NORTE

The best time to visit Ilocos Norte is from November to February if you want to avoid overheating while on vacation. By the time November rolls around, Christmas preparations are already well under way, so you can anticipate a flurry of festive events.

February 1 to 10 is the annual Pamulinawen Festival the grandest festival in the entire province.

The hottest months are from March through June, when highs of 35 degrees Celsius are common and there is little rain. You might run into a number of families with school-age children in Laoag during your visit because these months also happen to fall between Holy Week and the majority of schools’ summer vacation.

Rain and even typhoons are common during the months of July to October.

WHERE TO STAY IN ILOCOS NORTE

In Laoag City

• Viven Hotel Location: Click here Contact #: 0917 859 3450
• Palacio de Laoag Hotel Location: Click here Contact #:0777722950
• Fort Ilocandia Resort Hotel Location: Click here Contact #: 09175994863
• UKL Ever Resort Hotel Location: Click here Contact #: 0776002252
• Java Hotel Location: Click here Contact #: 09175005282

In Pagudpud

• Palm Grove Saud Holiday Complex Hotel Location: Click here Contact #: 09178962855
• Evangeline Beach Resort Location: Click here Contact #: 09088637564
• Casa Victoria Resort and Restaurant Location: Click here Contact #: 09175051462
• Casa Consuelo Resort – Island reef Location: Click here Contact #: 09989828438

CHECK: TOP 8 Budget friendly Hotels in Pagudpud

CHECK: Best Beachfront Hotels in Pagudpud

WHERE TO EAT IN ILOCOS NORTE

• Cuisine de Iloco Restaurant:   If you’re looking for a great place to eat in Laoag City, Cuisine de Iloco is the place to go. The restaurant earned some good reviews all over the internet, and it’s definitely as popular with tourists as it is with locals—and for good reason! Their cozy interior, friendly service, and delicious food make it a real winner.
• Eagles’ Nest Bar and Restaurant: Eagles’ Nest is an Ilocano-style restaurant that offers a wide variety of dishes from Ilocano cuisine to international cuisines like Japanese and American. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed; it’s not pretentious at all. They have wooden chairs, tables and lots of native designs adorning their interior. The music band will serenade you while you eat, making for a truly memorable dining experience!

CHECK: Best Restaurants in Laoag City 2022

• BergBlick Restaurant : They have been serving a variety of authentically cooked international, German, and Filipino dishes since 2010. The majority of their salads and veggies are always expertly prepared using organically cultivated ingredients. Everything, including the pasta, sauces, bagnet, etc., is homemade.
• Emohruo Beach Restobar: An Ilocano cuisine restaurant formerly known as Evangeline Restaurant that is located in the shoreline of Saud Beach.

CHECK: Best Restaurants in Pagudpud 2022

• Batac Riverside Empanadaan : Lanie’s Special Empanada is a pastry that resembles that of a crunchy folded pizza, stuffed with locally produced vegetables such as mung beans, grated papaya, and other fillings like egg and longganisa. The good part is it is located near Ferninand Marcos Museum.

ILOCOS NORTE 3D2N ITINERARY

Day 1 07:00am – Arrived in Laoag City, Ilocos Norte 08:30am – Breakfast @ Dawangs Eatery 10:30am – Laoag City Tour (Sinking Bell Tower, Picture taking infront of Ilocos Norte Capitol, Visit St. William Cathedral and Museu Ilocos Norte) all these tourists spots are walking distance to each other. 12:30pm – Lunch at Cuisine de Iloco Restaurant 01:00pm – Hotel check-in in Viven Hotel 02:00pm – Paoay Church 03:00pm – Malacañang Ti Amianan 04:30pm – 4×4 at Paoay Sand Dunes (₱1,500 for 30 minutes  with sand boarding) 06:00pm – Back to the hotel (Viven hotel is located beside Robinson’s Mall)

Day 2 06:00am – Breakfast 06:30am – Estimated Time of Departure for Pagudpud 07:30am – Graciano’s Cove 08:00am – Cape Bojeador 09:00am – Kapurpurawan Rock Formation 10:30am – Bangui Windmill 12:00pm – Check-in at Evangeline Resort 12:30pm – Lunch at BergBlick Restaurant 01:00pm – Patapat Viaduct 02:00pm – Bantay Abot Cave 03:00pm – Blue Lagoon 04:00pm – Saud Beach and Swim 05:00pm – Watch the sunset 06:00pm – Dinner at Emohruo Beach Restobar

Day 3 06:00am – Breakfast 07:30am – Estimated Time of Departure in Batac City 10:00am – Visit Ferdinand Marcos Museum 11:00pm – Eat Empanada and Miki

01:00pm – Juan Luna Shrine, Badoc 03:00pm – Estimated Time of Departure for Manila

TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS

Updated: October 2022 – No travel requirements

Note:  You must always bring your vaccination card because some establishments still require it. A picture of it will do. 

HOW TO GET AROUND ILOCOS NORTE

• Private car: Recommended to use Google Maps to roam around Ilocos Norte.
• You can reserve a Tour Van through your hotel. It costs around ₱4,500.00 per day. The driver is included in the price.
• Bus going to Pagudpud will cost you ₱100 per way.
• Trycicle fare within Laoag city proper is ₱15 to ₱20 (You can also bargain to the driver to tour you around the city or even in Paoay)
• Kalesa fare is ₱30 within the city proper only.

AVAIL AFFORDABLE ILOCOS TOUR PACKAGE STARTS AT ₱1,750/PAX

The Ilocos Tri-City Tour is a popular tourist itinerary in Luzon that includes a visit to the cities of Laoag, Pagudpud, and Vigan. Laoag is known for its heritage sites, such as the Sinking Bell Tower and the Paoay Church, as well as its beautiful beaches. Pagudpud is a seaside town that is famous for its long stretch of white sand beach and clear blue waters. Vigan is a World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial houses and historic landmarks, such as the Calle Crisologo. 

Ilocano Terms that Might Help You

In Ilocos Norte, English is commonly spoken and understood. Here are some important words in case you desire to speak the language, though. Thank You – Agyamanak Good Morning – Naimbag a bigat Good Afternoon – Naimbag a malem Good Evening – Naimbag a rabii How Much? – Sagmamano daytoy? Where is… – Sadino ti…

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DIY ITINERARY: 4D3N Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte

Last week of 2012 when I decided to embark a solo backpacking trip to the northern provinces of Luzon: Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte. My original plan for my Ilocandia trip was only for 3 days but since my schedule was flexible, the trip lasted for 4 days. Here is my documented and detailed Ilocos do-it-yourself itinerary .

10 THINGS TO DO IN ILOCANDIA

• Visit Hidden Garden in Vigan
• Try to compare the Vigan and Batac Empanada
• Wait for the sunset in Calle Crisologo
• Check the remains of late President Marcos
• Visit the UNESCO site of Paoay Church
• Check the Laoag Sinking Tower and Cathedral
• Lay down on Patapat Viaduct
• Overnight tent stay by the beach in Saud
• Know the legend of the rock formations in Pagudpud
• Try the Crispy Dinuguan and Baraniw Iced Tea in Johnny Moon’s Café

ILOCOS DIY ITINERARY

* Highlight/s of the day.

SAMPLE EXPENSES

Traveling on a limited budget is a challenge for every solo traveler especially for those who are first timers like me. Here are my expenses for my 4D3N tour in Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte last December 27-30, 2012.

Note: Fares to and from Ilocos are not included.

ACCOMMODATION

Book your stay in ilocos on the search box below..

ARCELLANA’S LODGING HOUSE San Julian Sur, Vigan City Contact No. +639178522547, +639178211119 Solo Fan Room with CR – 200/night

TEXICANO HOTEL Rizal Street, Laoag City Tel No. (077) 772-0290/7705778 Website: www.wix.com.ph/texicanohotel/ph Solo Fan Room w/o CR – 250/night

Overnight Tent Stay in Saud Beach Find Mr. Bernard Aguirre

HOW TO GET THERE

By Land Manila to Vigan – Partas Bus, Dominion, Aniceto and Viron Transit ply the Manila-Vigan route regularly. Fare is around Php750 and travel time is 8-9hrs. Vigan to Batac – Take a mini bus going to Laoag City and tell the bus conductor to drop you in Batac. Fare is Php80 and travel time is 2hrs. Batac to Paoay – Go to Pick A Bun and wait for the jeepneys going to Paoay. Fare is Php10 and travel time is about 30 minutes. Paoay to Laoag – Near Paoay Church is a jeepney terminal going to Laoag. Fare is Php36 and travel time is 1hr. Laoag to Pagudpud – At the back of Ilocos Norte Capitol is a bus terminal going to Pagudpud. Fare is Php60 and travel time is 1.5hr.

By Air Manila to Laoag – Take a Manila to Laoag direct flight via Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines or Airphil Express. Travel time is about an hour.

TOURISM OFFICES

VIGAN TOURISM OFFICE Tel. No. (077) 722-8771 to 76 www.vigancity.gov.ph [email protected]

ILOCOS NORTE TOURISM OFFICE Provincial Capitol Tel. No. (077) 772-1211 loc. 119/770-4242 www.ilocosnorte.gov.ph [email protected]

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Hi! I really like the setup of your blog. Me and my friends are planning for a trip there this September. The itinerary and list of expenses are very helpful. But, some of the pictures wont load. 🙁 Not sure if its my internet connection thats the problem or what not. Nonetheless, I was hoping you could send me these info in excel file. Will greatly appreciate it. Cheers to good health for more adventures! 🙂

Thanks for letting me know about the images. Images are up. For the expenses, since this trip happened way back in 2013, some of the fees listed probably increased since then.

Hi! I really like your itinerary and I want to follow. Do you have the contacts of your accommodations? I couldn’t find them in Agoda. Thanks!

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My 3D2N Ilocos Tour: Places Visited + Sample Budget

Ilocos, the Northwestern region of the Philippines, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country to date. And I can see several reasons why it has achieved this feat. For one, it has plenty of beautiful attractions to offer; for another, it is quite accessible from the capital Manila, where the majority of tourists are surging from; and three, there are wide selections of tour packages available that visiting to the province becomes a lot easier and affordable. In fact, for as low as Php 2299 each, a group of 12 can get a package just easily for a 3D2N tour, which includes hotel accommodation, breakfast, and van transfer from Manila and back.

There are a number of reasons why my tour to this part of the country was extra special – it was the first destination I have visited in the entire Luzon (with the exception of Manila); the tour also coincided with my 12th anniversary in my work; and, it was my last “major gala” for 2019. Therefore, it should not disappoint me. And it never did!

The day before our Ilocos tour, a new typhoon was just hovering over Luzon and the gusty winds were even felt in the capital Manila. So I was a bit worried that the tour agency might just suddenly send a message to postpone the tour. Thankfully, it never did.

CONTENT AT A GLANCE

The Journey From Manila

With intermittent rain showers, we started our tour at 9 pm. Our meeting place was at the SM Mall of Asia – car park. The driver/tour guide was telling us to get ready for an 8 to 9-hour grueling ride to the north. It turned out he was right. First, we had to go through the heavy traffic along Roxas Boulevard and other major thoroughfares in Metro Manila towards the NLEX – expressway to the north. Then, soon after that, we pulled away from the tollways heading north, passing several provinces, including Bulacan, Pampanga, Tarlac, the junction going to Baguio, Pangasinan, and La Union. We arrived in Ilocos Sur at around 7 am the following day.

DAY 1: Vigan, Bantay, Paoay, Laoag

Vigan, ilocos sur.

Our first stop was Vigan – a city in Ilocos Sur. This place impressed me a lot. Aside from friendly locals, highly noticeable were the preserved Spanish-era infrastructures. From government offices to churches to commercial buildings – what I saw were architectural designs reminiscent of the Spanish colonial era.

Apart from preserved architectural designs, it’s also impressive, to say the least, that the old way of transportation called calesa still exists, plying the cobblestones-streets of Vigan.

Here are the highlights of our Vigan Tour

Calesa Ride

It was my first time to have experienced taking a calesa ride. I was hesitant, at first, because the idea of using animals for transportation wasn’t (and still is) a thing that I used to. But after some explaining from the coachman – on how they take care of the horses – I decided to give it a go. We toured the main streets of Vigan for 2 hours, visiting landmarks for only Php 150.

Centuries-old Churches Visit

The Saint Paul Metropolitan Cathedral or commonly known as the Vigan Cathedral was first built in 1574 and then was rebuilt in the 1790s, after it was destroyed by an earthquake. The church stands tall facing Plaza Salcedo, with the Ilocos Sur Provincial Capitol nearby.

Saint Agustin Parish Church , commonly known as Bantay Church, is another religious landmark with impressive architecture. Its European-style design creates an imposing contrast from the rest of the structures in the area. Apart from the church itself, its bell tower is also attracting tourists who want to appreciate past engineering works.

Note: The Saint Agustin Church is located in Bantay, a Municipality next to Vigan City. Its proximity to Vigan makes it easy for anyone to go to this Centuries-old church.

Padre Burgos Residence

After visiting the churches, we proceeded to the residence of the late Padre Burgos, one of the “ Tatlong Paring Martir , ” Taking a glimpse of his way of life through the things he left behind.

Elpidio Quirino Residence (Syquia Mansion)

I never knew that the late President Quirino was from Vigan until this tour. We were lucky to have toured inside and around his house. Shown to us were his home office, the conference hall, and even his bedroom, along with his personal belongings. Truly, it was a visit full of historical learnings.

Calle Crisologo Stroll

The last stop and the highlight of our tour in Vigan was the Calle Crisologo. Perhaps, it was one of the most popular tourist spots in the area that our kutsero saved it for last. It was a one-of-a-kind experience walking its streets made of cobblestones. It was, indeed, a stroll that took me back in time. I immersed myself with the exquisite beauty around me – from houses in old Spanish architecture to items sold in the area – that it made me lingered a little more despite the rain.

Paoay, Ilocos Norte

Paoay sand dunes.

About 30 minutes ride from Vigan, we reached another popular tourist destination in Ilocos Sur – the Municipality of Paoay. The place is widely known for its sand dunes, where tourists can try 4×4 truck adventures as well as sandboarding. It’s a favorite destination of those who are into adrenaline-rush. One should not miss Paoay Sand Dunes when touring Ilocos.

WATCH | Here’s a glimpse of our 4×4 extreme ride experience.

San Agustin Church of Paoay

Of course, we did not miss taking a glimpse of San Agustin Church of Paoay or more commonly called as Paoay Church. After our extreme 4×4 adventure at the Paoay Sand Dunes, we stayed a little bit more to see firsthand this famous and the oldest Baroquian church of Paoay. This work of brilliant engineering still survives the test of time. Though it has undergone some renovations, the main structure, as well as the bell tower, have been preserved impressively.

Laoag, Ilocos Norte

Former pres. marcos’ residence (malacanan of the north).

The remaining time of our day 1 was spent at the late President Marcos’ residence aka Malacanan of the North. Unfortunately, we were not able to get inside as we arrived there at 3 PM  (it closes pretty early on weekends). So, we just enjoyed what’s outside, including the following:

We also took a glance at this beautiful church nearby.

Day 2: Sarrat, Bangui, Burgos, Pagudpud,

Ilocos norte, santa monica parish church.

We began our 2nd day by visiting the Santa Monica Parish Church in Sarrat. This is another centuries-old religious structure built in baroquian architecture, still standing elegantly despite the passage of time. A lot of important occasions were held at this church, including the wedding ceremony of Irene Marcos, one of the daughters of the late president.

Bangui Windmills

The rest of our morning on the second day was spent visiting the famous Bangui Windmills aka Bangui Wind Farm. It was one of the highlights of our Ilocos Norte travel. Having these giant windmills towering before my eyes was simply breathtaking. Looking up them closely was a gift that kept on giving. They were everywhere – over the hills and along the shore facing the West Philippine Sea. It was amazing to realize how this province was able to establish this green energy source. Indeed, yet another engineering marvel that should not be overlooked when visiting Ilocos.

Patapat Viaduct

In the afternoon of the second day of our tour, we went all the way to the tip of Luzon to see the Patapat Viaduct in Pagudpud. It’s a 1.3 km-long bridge built by the seawater (30 meters above sea level), snaking the winding terrain of the highlands nearby.

The Patapat Viaduct has a very important logistic role as it connects Ilocos to the neighboring Aparri and the rest of the places in Cagayan Valley, an administrative division composed of several provinces in the Northeastern Luzon.

The structure, the waves wallopping the bases of the bridge, the line of mountainous terrain nearby, and the alluring skies create a perfect landscape that makes Patapat Viaduct a magnet to thousands of tourist visiting North.

The Grotto at Paraiso ni Anton

I did not bother to ask who Anton was (or is) but the name of this spot was pretty intriguing to me (Paraiso ni Anton is Anton’s Paradise in English)! The place is just a few distance from the tip of the bridge, attracting tourists particularly the religious ones. People go there to offer some prayer, taking several steps to the grotto that is believed to be miraculous, but as well to enjoy the beauty of nature, which includes a small waterfall nearby cascading freshwaters.

Hannah’s Beach (Boracay of the North)

The next stop we had was a place known to be the Boracay of the North. And I can see the reason why Hannah’s Beach is being called as such. It has a long strip of white-sand beach comparable to Boracay, pristine blue water, and a beautiful landscape. The spot is also called as the Blue Lagoon, but my judgment tells that it’s more of a cove than a lagoon. Anyway, regardless of what it is called, the fact remains that the beauty of this place is truly worthy of a visit. And oh, I should mention as well that it also features a kind of a theme park that kids (and adults) can surely enjoy.

But I should not forget to mention as well the thing that I guess subject for improvement inside the resort – the beachfront, which was so bare and hot during our visit. This area along the shore, where open huts or cabanas could be found was all concrete, making the place very hot from the scorching sun when it’s high above. The area would have been a lot better and relaxing if they left some space where they could have grown Talisay trees that could serve as canopies for people staying in the area.

Kapurpurawan Rock Formations

Our remaining hours in the afternoon was spent enjoying the beauty of Kapurpurawan Rock Formations in Burgos. We were supposed to visit the Light House before that, but unfortunately, for some reason, the facility was already closed at that time of our visit, so we proceeded to the above-mentioned rock formations instead.

I was surprised. I never expected that Kapurpurawan Rock Formations to be that beautiful. I thought its beauty complemented perfectly with the golden sunset as well as the wind mills towering over the hills. It was worth trekking a kilometer distance to reach the area.

Day 3: Badoc and back to Vigan

The last day of our Ilocos tour was spent in Badoc, Ilocos Norte and then back to Ilocos Sur. We visited the remaining spots in our itinerary (the ones we missed on the first day because of time constraint) and then spent the rest of the time in the morning buying pasalubong before we finally traveled back to Manila after lunch.

Antonio Luna and Juan Luna Museum

The first stop on the third day was Antonio Luna’s and Juan Luna’s residence-turned-museum in Badoc, Ilocos Norte. Though the place was closed during our visit, because it was a holiday, still, we were able to have a glimpse of the lives and works of these national heroes. The remnants of their way of life are still there, including their artworks. Truly, visiting this place was humbling and one-of-a-kind experience for me.

Basilica Minore of Saint John the Baptist (Badoc, Ilocos Norte)

After visiting the Lunas’ museum, we proceeded to another religious landmark just nearby – the Basilica Minore of Saint John the Baptist, formerly known as Saint John the Baptist Parish. Just like the previous ones, I was treated with impressive architecture, though its white facade was creating a sharp contrast with the rest of its brick-lacquered structure. But more than its architectural feature, this 200-year old landmark has been part of the locals’ rich history and culture. Juan Luna was baptized at this church in 1857.

Baluarte (Vigan City, Ilocos Sur)

Back in Ilocos Sur, we visited Baluarte, which is owned by Chavit Singson. The place also brought a lot of fun to me as I got to see firsthand animals that I had only read in textbooks. Lots of wildlife creatures being domesticated can be seen inside the compound, including tiger, lion, deer, sheep, snakes – you name it!

I was able to take a glimpse at Chavit Singson’s “golden” house as well. It was a multiple-story abode with architecture, unlike any other residential structure.

Four Star (Pasalubong Center)

Of course, our tour would not be complete without buying keepsake items for our loved ones back home. So, we stopped by a couple of pasalubong centers.

A pasalubong center called Four Star’s Tinubong and Native Delicacies was the place we stopped by to buy some delicious treats. It’s a one-stop-shop where you can by various delicacies, including Ilocos’ most popular ones – Tinubong, Bagnet, Longanisa, and Empanada.

Back to Manila

After eating lunch, we got ready for another yet grueling long-hour land travel back. On our way to Manila, we made a stop at a grape farm in La Union. Our driver/tour guide was telling us that it was not included in our original itinerary and that he was doing it as his treat. So I was excited even if I was a bit energy-drained. After all, it would be my first time to experience grape picking.

Reaching the place, my level of excitement immediately dropped to the low. What I saw was not a grapes farm; it was just a small lot (about 500 square meters) planted with grapes. Adding to my disappointment was the fact that there were no fruits, except for some remnants – little round greens dangling randomly in vines.

At the corner of that block, there was a makeshift store displaying pasalubong items for sale, including bottles of wine, grapes, etc. But the grapes, I suspected, were of a different variety because they bore no resemblance in color with what I saw at the “farm”. And the wine labeled “Thailand” so that said a lot.

Visiting this “farm” for “grape picking” was the only activity I got a bit disappointed with during our entire tour – even though they were offering free tasting to us (I did not try it; the rest of the group did).

Overall, our trip to Ilocos was a fulfilling adventure. It brought lots of fun, happy memories memorable. And that despite having to experience inclement weather brought about by the onslaught of Typhoon Ineng. Well, I think touring with a cool and fun-loving group (even though we just met during the tour) was part of the reason, but most of all, because Ilocos delivered to me the beauty of the region and the hospitality of its people.

Ilocos Tour Sample Budget

(per person; for a group of 12).

• Food for 3 days = 150 x 3 x 3 = 1350
• Paoay Sand Dunes =  500
• Hannah’s Beach Resort = 160
• Tour Package = 2299
• Pasalubong = 500
• Additional extra cash (just in case) = 1000

Total budget = Php 5809 each

Note: Other destinations not mentioned in the sample budget are free of charge.

Travel tips that you might find useful

• While it is possible to DIY your Ilocos tour, it would be financially impractical if you do it that way. It would also be time-consuming. The best way to do it is to get a tour package; that is if you want to follow the above itinerary. It is way more easy, convenient than to DIY.
• Pack light to eliminate extra weight. Believe me, it would be a hassle experience carrying heavy items most especially that many Ilocos tour packages are designed in a way that takes you on a tour directly when you arrive there. (During our travel, we immediately toured around soon after we arrived in Ilocos before we checked in at our accommodation in the evening the same day.)
• Ilocos tour packages usually include lots of physical activities – transfer, walking, etc. – so bringing a tumbler of water will keep yourself hydrated.
• Be always nice and considerate to the rest of your group, most especially if you are in a joiner tour. That will help a lot in keeping your tour a lot of fun and memorable. (during our tour, I was lucky to be with people who were so nice and cool)
• Don’t forget to bring your camera to capture beautiful places and moments.
• And, I know this is a cliché, but let me say: leave only footprints; take only good memories (and, if I may just add, some delicious pasalubong too. 😁)

1 thought on “ My 3D2N Ilocos Tour: Places Visited + Sample Budget ”

Good morning.

I would like to inquire about the tour package per head in Vigan for March or April next year, 2023. Additionally, please provide information about the inclusions of the tour package.

If possible, kindly send the details via email to [email protected]

Best regards, Vegie

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Traveling in Ilocos Norte and Sur - 4D3N Itinerary for P6,000

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A Perfect 3 Days Ilocos Itinerary

By: Author Ruben Arribas

Posted on November 9, 2023

Categories Philippines

Ilocos is a province in the northern part of the Philippines. The province faces the South China Sea in the west and The Luzon Strait in the North. We will write for you a 3 Days Ilocos itinerary for your next visit.

Read here our favorite  things to do in Laoag

Table of Contents

SIM CARD AT MANILA AIRPORT

I wouldn’t recommend you to buy a sim card at Manila airport. If you wish comfort you can buy eSim online and if you aren’t in a hurry just go around phone shops in the city and compare prices to buy the cheapest sim card in Manila. Read here Philippines sim card for tourist and best Philippines eSim

WHERE TO STAY IN THE PHILIPPINES

You can get accommodation starting from 800-1000 PHP (less than $20 USD ) for a room in a guesthouse. Can you imagen if you are two of you traveling in the Philippines, it will be $10 USD each.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK YOUR ACCOMMODATION WITH  BOOKING  AND  AGODA !

BOOK YOUR TRAVEL INSURANCE

You can read  Heymondo Vs Safetwing cheapest travel Insurance . You can get for  $135 USD  your  Heymondo   Travel Insurance  with Heymondo discount code  valid for 90 days. Read our full  Heymondo Travel Insurance Review

You can get  Safetywing Travel Insurance  for Digital Nomads valid for 28 days  Safetywing for $50 USD per month with kids until 10 years old included

HOW TO GET TO ILOCOS NORTE

How to get to ilocos norte by plane.

Laoag International Airport  is the main airport serving the general area of Laoag, the capital city of the province of Ilocos Norte in the Philippines. It is the only airport in Ilocos Norte and is the northernmost international airport in the Philippines by geographical location. Flight from Manila to Laoag will only take an hour. There are 9 flights weekly that are available.

HOW TO GET TO LAOAG BY BUS FROM MANILA

Travelling by bus from Manila to Laoag will take you 10 hours or so on the road. Buses like  Fariñas Trans  and  Partas  Bus have direct routes to Laoag. Fare can cost  900 PHP  for one way.

Click here to book online the bus from Manila to Laoag !

DAILY BUDGET IN ILOCOS NORTE

Since most spots are either free of entrance fee or the fee is cheap, Laoag day trips can be cheap and budgeted. Aside from experiencing the sand dunes which is one of the most famous yet also one of the most expensive activity to do in Laoag.

With  1500 PHP  can be a good budget with food, transportation and accommodation plus entrance fees to some spots. A bigger budget will of course bring you more memorable experience but Laoag can already be a beautiful experience just being there.

You can go for local food for  50-70 PHP  in local carinderias and around  150 PHP  in local restaurants in Laoag where you will find Filipino and Western food.

For accommodation, a budget room would cost minimum 1000 PHP ($20 USD) and you can go up to 5000 PHP. Airbnb options are starting from  $15-25 .

WHERE TO STAY IN LAOAG? CLICK HERE TO RESERVE YOUR ACCOMMODATION WITH BOOKING.

ILOCOS ITINERARY

There are many options for 3 Days Ilocos itinerary. We will have our start point in Laoag and visit around to go next day to enjoy the beaches in Pagudpud and for our last day we will go to Vigan. It’s little bit tight for 3 days so if you can extend your trip in Ilocos will be more flexible.

DAY 1 ILOCOS ITINERARY

For the first day in your Ilocos itinerary we will stop in Laoag and we will do sightseeing around. Paoay Church, Marcos Museum, Bacarra Domeless Tower, Malacanag and Juan Luna Shrine are the mian tourist spots to visit in Laoag. At night make sure you try local food like Bagnet, Pinakbet, Empanada and Longaniza. You will find this food in almost all the carinderias in Laoag.

PAOAY CHURCH

The Saint Augustine Church, commonly known as the Paoay Church, is the Roman Catholic church of the municipality of Paoay, Ilocos Norte in the Philippines. Completed in 1710, the church is famous for its distinct architecture highlighted by the enormous buttresses on the sides and back of the building.

MARCOS MUSEUM AND MAUSOLEUM

The Ferdinand E. Marcos Presidential Center is a museum situated in Batac, Ilocos Norte dedicated to former Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos which also hosts the cenotaph of the former President. The museum shows memorabilia of the late president, from his stint in the armed forces down to his presidency.

BACARRA DOMELESS TOWER

The Bacarra church is famous for its centuries-old, domeless or “beheaded” belfry known as  Torre ti Bacarra .  The structure stands three stories and 50 metres (160 ft) high.

MALACAÑANG OF THE NORTH

Malacanang Ti Amianan, or also commonly called as Malacañang of the North, is a presidential museum in Paoay, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. It was the residence of the family of Ferdinand Marcos when he was the President of the Philippines.

It is a two-story mansion overlooking the Paoay Lake, and consists of seven (supposedly a lucky number for Marcos) rooms, with each room having a theme of historical events from the Marcos era: Study, Agriculture, Diplomacy, OFW (overseas Filipino workers), Culture, Nation Building and Family. The entrance is 20 PHP and it is open from 9am to 5pm daily.

JUAN LUNA SHRINE

Located in Badoc Ilocos Norte, Juan Luna Shrine is the reconstruction of Juan Luna’s home. It is a 2-storey house that was said to be burned down around 1861 but fortunately enough, the ruins that remained made it possible to be reconstructed and made it into the Shrine that it is now. There are collections and displays all over the house where you’ll get to know not just Juan Luna, but also his brother, Antonio Luna as well.

Bagnet  is the double-fried crispy pork specialty of Ilocos. It’s  a cross between chicharon and lechon kawali  where the lean  meat is crispy but not dry  and the pork skin is  fried to a crisp.  You’ll taste the natural taste oh so yummy taste of the pork!

Pinakbet is a popular Ilocano vegetable dish. t is a vegetable stew made with tomatoes, eggplant, string beans, okra, and bitter gourd. The dish might have different version all over the country but the Ilocano pinakbet uses a much loved fermented fish sauce called  bagoong isda  to season the dish, so it is really a must try!

Ilocos Norte has the best tasting empanadas. If you are in Laoag, you can go to Batac which was about 30 minutes away to buy empanadas. Batac is like the empanada capital in Ilocos Norte. They even have Empanada Festival on the City Charter Day each 23rd of June.

Ilocano Longganisa might be famous, but it is said that the ones from Laoag, specifically in San Nicolas Public Market are jucier because it contains more fat, making it also more lethal. Unlike the Vigan longganisa, Laoag has minimal vinegar or contains none at all.

Tinubong is a local delicacy that means cooking the mixture of young coconut meat, sugar, margarine, cheese, and ground glutinous rice inside a young bamboo or tubong. It is a native favorite and is usually made and serve for occasions such as Christmas, New Year and even Birthdays.

DAY 2 ITINERARY IN ILOCOS

For your second day in your itinerary in Ilocos we will go to Pagudpud. One of our favorite  places to visit in the Philippines .

There are many things to do in Pagudpud and it will require the whole day to try to visit as much as you can. If you can extend your itinerary in Ilocos we will recommend you an extra day in Pagudpud for sure.

There are day tours in Pagudpud half day or full day tour. We did both of them. Read here for a full information for a  Day Tour around Pagudpud !

Read below all the spots that you can’t miss in Pagudpud since Bangui Windmills, Saud Beach to the Rock formations and Blue Lagoon where you can try the zipline.

Read here  where to stay in Pagudpud !

BANGUI WINDMILLS

Bangui Wind Farm  is a  wind farm  in Bangui, Ilocos Norte, Philippines. The wind farm uses  20 units of 70-meter  (230 ft) high VestasV82 1.65 MW wind turbines, arranged on a single row stretching along a nine-kilometer shoreline off Bangui Bay, facing the West Philippine Sea. 

The wind farm is  created to supply electricity to the province.  Thus, the windmills are not only beautiful to look at; they are also useful and environmental tools used to supply electricity.

The beach is so windy an ideal for taking pictures. To get Bangui windmills from Pagudpud is 25 kilometers ride. Once you are there you can buy souvenirs and enjoy the views. There is no entrance fee! Bangui windmills is clear our favorite Ilocos Norte tourist spots.

The jewel in the crown of Pagudpud is  Saud Beach , with its renowned wonderful fine white sand.  Saud Beach  has cream-colored sand and cool waters,perfect for swimming and beach bumming in. Have a relaxing day or afternoon just on the beach. The resorts in the area makes sure that the shores are clean, so it is a plus point. There is plenty of room for activities such as volleyball or throwing a Frisbee .

BLUE LAGOON

Maira-ira beach is a stretch of white sand and crystal clear waters stretching out to the West Philippine Sea. Dubbed as the Blue Lagoon, this is one of the most well known destination in Pagudpud.

A number of resorts, luxury and budget, are along the way so tourists can surely enjoy the view and the activities such as swimming and other water sports longer. The water is so clear and you can even get there with the zipline!

TIMANGTANG ROCK

Timangtang rock is a rock formation that can be seen along the seacoast of Sitio Gaoa, Balaoi, Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. It is shaped like a sloped hill and is said to be a part of Bantay Abot Cave. They are often called the lovers as Timangtang rock is the male counterpart.

BURGOS LIGHTHOUSE

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse  also known as Burgos Lighthouse, is a cultural heritage structure in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, that was established during the Spanish Colonial period in the Philippines.

The lighthouse of Cape Bojeador serves shipping heading towards the Pacific Coast heading towards the  Babuyan Channel , also serves ships heading towards the ports of Salomangue and Curmimao. The  entrance fee is 20 PHP .

KABIGAN FALLS

Kabigan Falls is a rustic trail through tropical forest that leads visitors to this dramatic natural waterfall. Reaching the place from the main highway is  approximately 30-45 minute walk  depending on your speed and power. The trek going to  Kabigan Falls  is mostly in a flat area so you’ll have time to enjoy the beautiful panorama.

It’s mandatory to hire a guide for 120 PHP to reach the waterfalls. Once in Kabigan waterfalls is a nice place for relaxing and it’s not so crowded.

KAPURPURAWAN ROCK FORMATIONS

Kapurpurawan Rock Formation is a natural rock formation created through the years by the natural forces of the ocean on  the rocky coast of Burgos, Ilocos Norte,  just a few minutes from the  Cape Bojeador.  Kapurpurawan comes from an Ilocano word “puraw” which means white. Since most of the rock formations in that area are white,  local folks called it “Kapurpurawan”.

DOS HERMANOS ISLAND

The Dos Hermanos Islands are two rock formations located off the northern coast of Maira-ira Point in Pagupud, Ilocos Norte, the Philippines.  The twin islands are often visited by tourists, and are a natural landmark of Pagudpud.

BANTAY ABOT CAVE

Bantay Abot cave might look like a cave, but it is not really a cave. It is actually a hill that was  wrecked by an earthquake in the 80’s  leaving a hole in the middle. The top of the  cave is covered with lush green vegetation  thus adding the beauty of the cave. To get to the interior of the cave, you have to go down a few concrete staircase and a rocky part going up to the hole.

PATAPAT VIADUCT

The Patapat Viaduct is a viaduct at the municipality of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, a coastal resort town on the northernmost tip of Luzon Island in the Philippines.  The bridge is elevated 31 meters over sea level.  The views are so impressive and it was one of our favorite Ilocos Norte tourist spots.

DAY 3 ILOCOS ITINERARY

For the last day of your Ilocos itinerary visiting Vigan before going back Manila will be the best option. Walking around the city, visiting La Plaza and eating local food similar gastronomy than Laoag. Since it’s only 2 hours bus ride. If you are in a hurry you can get a night bus to Manila to make of the most of your itinerary in Ilocos.

A great option while staying in Ilocos Norte is a day trip from Laoag to Vigan that will take less than two hours by bus. Vigan is so beautiful and you can breathe the old Spanish culture around the streets with the calesas. Read here  where to stay in Vigan !

MORE DAYS ILOCOS ITINERARY

If you have more time than 3 days in your itinerary in Ilocos. You have a few possibilities for this. Since extending your day in Laoag to visit more spots around the city and doing a day trip to La Paz Sand Dunes.

SINKING BELL TOWER

St. William’s Cathedral in Laoag City is famous for its Sinking Bell Tower. It is one of the things that will capture the attention of the tourists upon entering the city. The bell tower is one of the landmarks of Spanish colony in the Philippines.

The tower has earned its “sinking” reputation because it is so heavy and it was built on sandy foundations that it has been consistently sinking into the ground.

LA PAZ SAND DUNES

The La Paz Sand Dunes  is an 85-square-kilometer protected sandy coastal desert and beach located in Laoag, Ilocos Norte, in the Philippines. The area is known locally by the name Bantay Bimmaboy, a name which refers to the common perception that the dunes resemble pigs (“baboy” in Filipino) in shape. The area is also known as the Desert of the North and is a popular location for shooting films.

PAOAY LAKE NATIONAL PARK

Paoay Lake, locally known as Dacquel a Danum, is a lake in the municipality of Paoay in northwestern Luzon in the Philippines. It is the largest lake in the province of Ilocos Norte and one of the largest natural lakes in the area.

SANTA MONICA CHURCH

The Church of Our Lady of the Assumption, commonly known as the Santa Maria Church is the parish church of Santa Maria in Ilocos Sur province, Philippines.

SAN AGUSTIN CHURCH

Festivals in ilocos norte, dinaklisan festival.

Celebrated from April 29 to May 1, Dinaklisan Festival is celebrated to pay tribute to the fishermen and to give homage to the Almighty for the rich marine life in the sea. People come together for the float parade, street dancing and the coronation of the town’s beauty contest winner.

BAC-BACARRA FESTIVAL

Bac-Bacara Festival is a festival celebrated to honor the town’s patron saint, St. Andrew de Apostle. It happens every November and it started in 2005. The legendary word “bac-bacarra” is a specie of freshwater fish abundant in the river during the 15th century which gave birth to the town’s name.

PAMULINAWEN FESTIVAL

It is celebrated in Laoag every February 10, which is the feast day of Saint William the Hermit, its patron saint. It is an affair which is primarily done to give honor, pay our homage and extend our thanks for the benevolence and generosity of Saint William. Through his intercession to the Lord, Laoag City has been blessed and spared from calamities and disasters.

WHERE TO STAY IN ILOCOS NORTE

People’s inn.

People’s Inn is located in Laoag, 14.5 km from Paoay Sand Dunes and 22.5 km from Paoay Church. This 1-star inn offers free WiFi. An Asian breakfast is available each morning at the property. The nearest airport is Laoag International Airport, 9.7 km from the property.  Room rate starts at 1,839 PHP a night.

Click here to check their rates and availability!

ISABEL SUITES

Isabel Suites is located in Laoag. It houses a restaurant and offers complimentary WiFi access and parking. Each room and suite features air conditioning, cable TV and a wardrobe. The private bathroom offers hot/cold shower facilities, toiletries and slippers.

Cailian Grill and Resto features a selection of local delights. Room service is also provided.  Room rate starts at 1,450 PHP a night.

PALACIO DE LAOAG

The Palacio de Laoag has free WiFi. Guests at the 3-star property can enjoy garden views in the rooms and access to an indoor pool. The property provides entertainment staff and free shuttle service. At the hotel, the rooms have a closet, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom.

A continental breakfast is available daily at The Palacio de Laoag. The accommodation has an outdoor pool. You can play pool at The Palacio de Laoag. Staff at the reception can assist guests at any time of the day.  Room rate starts at 2,259 PHP a night.

PLAZA DEL NORTE HOTEL AND CONVENTION CENTER

Plaza del Norte Hotel and Convention Center offers air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi and an outdoor swimming pool. Local and international dishes are served at  Ayuyang Restaurant.  Rooms with tiled flooring and a balcony are equipped with cable TV, mini refrigerator and private bathroom with shower. Select rooms offer a bath.

Relaxation options at Plaza del Norte Hotel and Convention Center include massage and spa therapies. Other facilities include a 24-hour front desk and chapel. An airport transfer service is available at a charge.  Room rate starts at 3,000 PHP a night.

VIVEN HOTEL CORPORATION

Modern and air-conditioned rooms with free Wi-Fi are provided at Viven Hotel. Part of 365 Plaza, where shopping and dining options and a casino are available, the hotel has 3 dining options.All rooms have a flat-screen cable TV and desk.

Private bathroom comes with a hot and cold shower and free toiletries.A 24-hour front desk, garden and mini-market can be found at the hotel. Other facilities include a tour desk and free parking. Tribeca offers local cuisine, coffee, pastries and cake. International dishes can be sampled at Tio Padre. Desserts and tea are served at Bon Appetea.  Room rate starts at 2,800 PHP for a night.

Click here to check their rate and availability!

Hope you liked our Ilocos itinerary. Are you planning to visit soon? Let us know if we are missing something or if you have questions in the comments below.

Feel free to use our links for discounts. Using our links will help us to continue with the maintenance of the website and it will not cost you anything. Thanks for the love guys

Happy Travels!

About the Author : Ruben , co-founder of Gamintraveler.com since 2014, is a seasoned traveler from Spain who has explored over 100 countries since 2009. Known for his extensive travel adventures across South America, Europe, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Asia, and Africa, Ruben combines his passion for adventurous yet sustainable living with his love for cycling, highlighted by his remarkable 5-month bicycle journey from Spain to Norway. He currently resides in Spain, where he continues to share his travel experiences alongside his partner, Rachel, and their son, Han.

10 Best Things To Do In Ilocos Sur, Philippines [With Sample 3 Day Itinerary]

Region 1 in the Philippines is one of the fascinating places to go to. It is home to one out of six UNESCO Heritage Sites in the country, the Historic City of Vigan. Though it’s a long journey from the nearest international airport (Clark or NAIA), the bus ride is worth it. Here’s an Ilocos Sur Itinerary and list of what to do in Ilocos Sur if you ever visit this region. It’s great to pair it with a trip to Ilocos Norte, too!

My mom has always been interested in Ilocos, mainly because of Vigan and Pagudpud. A week after my birthday last year, we went on a family trip to this region. Our flight was from Cebu to Clark since the tickets were cheaper, and the bus ride was shorter by an hour or two. Here’s our itinerary for our Ilocos Sur trip!

• List of the Best Luxury Hotels in Ilocos, Philippines
• Best Beach Wedding Destinations in the Philippines
• Palompon, Leyte Travel Guide from a Local: Tips to Kalanggaman Island and More!
• 10 Reasons Why You Should Visit Enchanted Kingdom in Laguna, Philippines
• Letting Go in the Wonders of Ilocos (Philippines)

Table of Contents

Things to Do In Ilocos Sur, Philippines

1. ride a kalesa along the streets of vigan.

The Kalesa was a popular means of transportation in the old days, especially when taxis and jeepneys were not yet accessible. Be transported back in olden times as you ride a horse-drawn carriage along the streets of Vigan. It’s a must experience when you visit this historic city. The ride costs Php 150 per hour and would tour you to major spots; you can usually see them in Calle Crisologo.

If you want my honest opinion, though this is a job for the horses, I felt a bit sad for them (I saw ribs poking out on some horses L.) It’s an experience I don’t want to do again. I was very excited in the first few minutes then tried to hold back tears. Eventually, I cried after; my parents were laughing at me, though.

2. Walk the streets of Calle Crisologo

Calle Crisologo is the pride of Vigan. Everything you on this street are well-preserved houses and shops. Should you want souvenirs or t-shirts, you can buy them from here. There is also a museum called Museo Balay Mestizo nestled in one antique building. It’s better to come here in the afternoon to see it on a day and night.

3. Enjoy a day in Baluarte  Zoo

Baluarte Zoo is an attraction owned by billionaire politician, Chavit Singson. Initially, we were supposed to do this on our first day, but Miss Universe Contestants were being toured; so, you’ll need to check the schedule beforehand. Enjoy a hop-on-hop-off ride at 4 stations in the Zoo; you’ll get a chance to feed the animals and take pictures with them.

4. Go to the top of Bantay Watch Tower

During the Spanish Era, the Bantay Bellfry served as a watchtower for enemies. It’s near the Saint Augustine Parish Church, a Neo-Gothic and Romanesque Church, established in 1590. There’s no entrance fee going to the top; however, you can donate for the staff and preservation of the site.

5. Buy Inabel weaved by Locals

See locals traditionally weave colorful products like placemats, bags, and many more. Our tricycle driver drove us there and called it “pagawaan ng placemats.” We saw them make one using colorful threads. There’s a store where my mom bought placemats, table stoppers, and bags as souvenirs. You can take a picture, too!

6. Check out the Hidden Garden

In a place not really hidden, is Hidden Garden! Enjoy tropical plants and flowers in this spot. P.S. you can buy one, too. There’s also a restaurant inside where you can eat local dishes, especially their Empanada.

7. Try a Bit of Pottery

We went to RJ Jar Factory and see locals make clay pots from scratch. Try making your own too, it looks easy when the potters do it, but it’s a bit of a challenge. You can also buy pots you like as keepsake.

8. Eat Local Food

If you visit another region, don’t forget to taste its local cuisine! In Ilocos Sur, Vigan Empanada is a must-try, so are there Bagnet, Pinakbet, and Longannisa. We had lunch at Panganan Ken Ihawan Toy Ciudad Vigan, which our tricycle driver recommended trying their cuisine at an affordable price.

9. Museum Hop

There are many museums in Ilocos Sur, don’t forget to pass by the Crisologo Museum, an ancestral house of famous politicians from this part of the country. There is also Syquia Mansion of the Philippines’ sixth president, Elpidio Quirino. Near there is the Old Provincial Jail turned art center.

10. See the Dancing Fountain

Surrounded by Saint Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, Provincial Capitol, and the City Hall is Plaza Salcedo. Before 7 PM / 8 PM, save a spot in the plaza to see the dancing fountain. It’s so colorful and fun; you won’t regret it. The best place is facing the fast-food chains or the city hall rather than having your back at them.

11. Find accommodation in Ilocos Sur, Philippines

Ilocos sur itinerary.

Here’s our Ilocos Sur Itinerary, you can enjoy it on a day and a half or two. The time you’ll be spending on the most will be the travel from Manila or Clark to Vigan.

Day 0 in Ilocos Sur

Arrival at Clark Airport Travel from Dau to Vigan

Stop for Dinner Arrival at Vigan

As you can see, it’s at most an 8-hour ride from Dau to Vigan. We traveled on a Tuesday and experienced many stops along the way. Our bus was comfortable though, 4 seats per row, air-conditioned with a CR. The regular fare was Php 560.

Day 1 in Ilocos Sur

Bantay Watch Tower Weaving Center Hidden Garden RG Jar Factory Crisologo Museum Syquia Museum Old Provincial Jail

Calle Crisologo Museo Balay Mestizo Calesa Ride Saint Paul Metropolitan Cathedral

Plaza Salzedo – Dancing Fountain Calle Crisologo at Night

We hired a tricycle, who seemed to be a neighbor in where we were staying for Php 600.00. After our lunch, we rested a bit since it was too hot for travel and resumed at about 4 PM.

Day 2 in Ilocos Sur

Travel to Laoag

Where to Stay in Ilocos Sur, Philippines

J and a transient.

Honestly, we didn’t book our hotels before coming, we only looked for one when we arrived in Clark. J and A Transient was available and cheap. My parents and I are budget travelers, so we didn’t mind. The room was small good for 3 and air-conditioned with a common CR.

Hotel Felicidad

Hotel Felicidad is located in the city center, near Calle Crisologo, Plaza Salcedo, and the Cathedral. It’s a Colonial Style building that was built in the early 1900s. It has big airconditioned rooms with the Spanish feel. It’s a great experience when you are in the historic City.

Not Hotel de Luna, the K-Drama, but Hotel Luna in Vigan. This gorgeous hotel will make you think you are transported to another world. With magnificent architecture, a mix of the old colonial style and modern designs, and an outdoor swimming pool, it’s such a beauty! You won’t regret booking here.

Where to Eat in Ilocos Sur. Philippines

Panganan ken ihawan toy ciudad vigan.

This was recommended by our Tricycle driver when we asked where locals mostly eat for Ilocano Food. It’s very affordable, and many locals, and perhaps tourists come here to eat. We tried what our driver picked for us.

Lampong’s Restaurant

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by katerina Ballesteros (@artsikat) on Nov 14, 2019 at 2:23am PST

If you want affordable Ilocano cuisine along Calle Crisologo, go to Lampong’s Restaurant.  It’s a cozy small restaurant where you can enjoy different styles of Bagnet and Vigan Longganisa. You should stop by here after watching the dancing fountain.

Lilong and Lilang Restaurant

In the Hidden Garden, there is a restaurant serving Ilocano dishes. Enjoy there empanada as well as other Filipino food. There’s no entrance fee to the Hidden Garden, so you’ll not only be filled with food but also the beauty of the place.

I hope you find this Ilocos Sur Itinerary useful for your travels to Region I. It’s such a beautiful city that I think every Filipino should visit to embrace history and culture. Check out also my Ilocos Norte Itinerary so you could do check this on your Philippines bucket list.

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About the Writer

Hey, I’m Lyza! I once was a person who just imagined going to places “one day” but decided to pursue my dreams. My first travel abroad was in Japan, solo, last 2018, and fell in love with the journey since. I’m aiming to visit 10 countries before turning 30 and 2 new places in the Philippines every year. Besides traveling, I love organizing trips, photography, reading, and making new friends. Follow my adventures through my  Instagram .

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One thought on “ 10 Best Things To Do In Ilocos Sur, Philippines [With Sample 3 Day Itinerary] ”

This makes me miss the empanada from vigan/ilocos sur! I’ve always been fascinated by the old architecture along Calle Crisologo! ?

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