Ilocos, the northern gem of Luzon, is a destination that blends history, culture, and stunning natural landscapes. It’s about 8–9 hours by land from Manila or just 1–2 hours by plane. Whether you’re here to stroll through Spanish-era streets, ride the sand dunes, or relax on white-sand beaches, Ilocos offers an experience that’s both affordable and unforgettable.
It’s divided into Ilocos Norte (north) and Ilocos Sur (south) — and both have their own unique charm. If you don’t mind long road trips, you can take the land route, but if budget allows, flying will save your energy for exploring.
How to Get There
By Land
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Bus: Victory Liner, Partas, and Fariñas offer trips to Laoag and Vigan. Prices start at ₱800–₱1,000 one way. Travel time is around 8–9 hours.
Book Your Bus Tickets
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Van tours: Many travel agencies offer packaged trips that include transport, accommodation, and some tours — a good option for hassle-free travel.
By Air
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Laoag International Airport in Ilocos Norte and Vigan Airport in Ilocos Sur are your two options. Flights from Manila are around 1 hour 15 minutes and start at ₱3,000–₱5,000 round trip (depending on the season).
Book Your Flight Tickets
💡 Personal Tip: I took the 9-hour road trip once — my back and butt were not fans. If you can, fly. You’ll arrive fresh and ready to explore.
When is the Best Time to Go
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Dry Season (November to April): Best weather for sightseeing and beach trips.
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December to February: Cooler months — bring a light jacket.
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Summer (March to May): Hot but perfect for the beach in Pagudpud.
What to Bring
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Light, breathable clothes (it can get hot)
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Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
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Reusable water bottle
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Small bills for souvenirs and food
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Power bank (you’ll be taking lots of photos)
How to Get Around in Ilocos
Local transport options include tricycles, jeepneys, and vans for hire. For tours, some travelers opt to rent a van or join group packages. Taxis and Grab aren’t common here, so plan your transport in advance.
Where to Stay
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Vigan:
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Budget: Cordillera Inn (₱1,200–₱1,500/night)
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Mid-range: Hotel Luna (₱3,000–₱5,000/night)
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Laoag:
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Budget: Balay da Blas Pensionne (₱1,000–₱1,500/night)
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Mid-range: Fort Ilocandia Resort (₱4,000–₱6,000/night)
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Pagudpud:
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Budget: Polaris Beach House (₱800–₱1,200/night)
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Mid-range: Hannah’s Beach Resort (₱3,000–₱5,000/night)
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Tours and Activities You Can Do
Vigan – Time Travel Back to the Spanish Era
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Calle Crisologo: UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets and colonial houses. Best explored in the early morning or at night when the lamps are lit.
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Bantay Bell Tower & Church: Picturesque 15th-century landmark.
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Local Eats: Try longganisa, empanada, and bagnet.
💡 Personal Tip: Skip the kalesa rides if you can — the horses look exhausted, and you can explore on foot instead.
Klook.com
Laoag – Sand Dunes & History
- La Paz Sand Dunes: 4×4 ride (₱500) + unlimited sandboarding. Hot but worth it — don’t forget sunscreen and water!
- Paoay Church: UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its baroque architecture.
- Malacañang of the North: Former residence of Ferdinand Marcos with themed rooms and lake views.
Pagudpud – Beaches & Natural Wonders
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Hannah’s Beach Resort: White sand and blue waters; entrance ₱250.
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Bangui Windmills: Iconic wind turbines along the shore — perfect photo spot.
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Kapurpurawan Rock Formation: White rock formations sculpted by wind and waves. Horseback tours available (₱100).
Where to Eat
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Vigan:
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Café Leona – Local Ilocano dishes
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Irene’s Vigan Empanada – Street food favorite
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Laoag:
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Saramsam Ylocano – Bagnet pizza and Ilocano fusion dishes
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Pagudpud:
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Local eateries by the beach (simple but fresh seafood)
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Summary of Expenses
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Airfare (RT) | ₱3,000 – ₱5,000 |
| Land Transport | ₱800 – ₱1,000 one way |
| Accommodation | ₱800 – ₱5,000/night |
| Food | ₱150 – ₱500/meal |
| Tours & Activities | ₱2,000 – ₱4,000/day (group) |
| Souvenirs | ₱500 – ₱1,500 |
