Jump to: About | History | Top Attractions | What to Do | How to Get There | Where to Stay | Local Delicacies | Travel Tips
About
Ilocos Sur is a captivating coastal province located in the Ilocos Region (Region I) along the northwestern coast of Luzon, Philippines. Bound by Ilocos Norte to the north, Abra to the northeast, Mountain Province and Benguet to the east, La Union to the south, and the West Philippine Sea to the west, its capital city is the historic city of Vigan.
Celebrated globally for its exceptionally well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, Ilocos Sur is a treasure trove of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, centuries-old stone churches, traditional pottery centers, and coastal landscapes. From stepping back in time along cobblestone streets to sampling garlicky local treats, Ilocos Sur offers an unmissable heritage journey for travelers exploring northern Luzon.
History
Before Spanish colonization, the coastal plains of Ilocos Sur were inhabited by indigenous Ilocano communities who traded gold, woven textiles, and earthenware with Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian merchants. In 1572, Spanish conquistador Juan de Salcedo established Villa Fernandina (now Vigan), turning it into a major Spanish colonial administrative and religious stronghold in northern Luzon.
The province played a central role in revolutionary history, serving as the battleground for anti-colonial uprisings led by Diego Silang and his brave wife, Gabriela Silang, in the 18th century. In February 1818, a royal decree officially divided the Ilocos territory into two distinct provinces: Ilocos Norte and Ilocos Sur. In 1999, the Historic City of Vigan was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, later being voted as one of the New7Wonders Cities in 2015.
Top Attractions in Ilocos Sur
Ilocos Sur is packed with iconic colonial architecture, historic belfries, and scenic heritage plazas. Here are five essential sights to include in your itinerary:
1. Calle Crisologo (Vigan Heritage Village)
A world-famous cobblestone street lined with 16th to 19th-century Spanish-Filipino ancestral mansions, capiz shell windows, and horse-drawn carriages (calezas).
2. Santa Maria Church (Nuestra Señora de la Asunción)
A UNESCO World Heritage Site built atop a hill in Santa Maria, celebrated for its massive Earthquake Baroque architecture and detached octagonal bell tower.
3. Bantay Church and Bell Tower
A historic brick belfry perched on a hill in Bantay, offering panoramic views of the town and serving as a former watchtower during Spanish times and WWII.
4. Syquia Mansion Museum
The grand ancestral home of former Philippine President Elpidio Quirino, housing period furniture, antique oil portraits, and lavish colonial decor.
5. Plaza Salcedo and Dancing Fountain
The main city square in Vigan featuring historical monuments and an evening multi-colored laser light and musical fountain show.
What to Do
From riding vintage horse carriages to crafting native clay jars, Ilocos Sur offers immersive cultural activities. Here are five top things to do:
1. Take an Early Morning Caleza Ride in Vigan
Explore the quiet heritage streets of Vigan aboard a traditional horse-drawn carriage to admire the early morning fog over colonial ancestral homes.
2. Experience Jar Making at Pagburnayan Pottery
Try your hand at traditional pottery making using ancient wooden wheels and local clay alongside master artisans at Vigan's historic burnay kilns.
3. Climb the Steps of Bantay Bell Tower
Ascend the winding stairs of the brick belfry for sweeping vistas of the surrounding countryside, Mount Abra, and the historic church plaza.
4. Watch Abel Iloco Weaving in Caoayan
Visit local handloom workshops to see master weavers craft durable Inabel textiles, blankets, and traditional garments using native wooden looms.
5. Watch the Evening Light & Fountain Show at Plaza Salcedo
End your night at the open plaza between Vigan Cathedral and City Hall to watch an entertaining synchronized water and light display.
How to Book Activities
Discover and book unforgettable tours and activities in Ilocos and beyond. Secure your spot easily and enjoy hassle-free reservations through GetYourGuide:
How to Get There
Ilocos Sur is accessible via overland bus routes from Metro Manila or regional flights into neighboring northern hubs:
- Via Public Bus from Metro Manila (Direct Route):
- Board an air-conditioned long-distance bus (such as Partas, Viron Transit, or Ananas Trans) departing from Cubao or Sampaloc, Manila directly bound for Vigan City, Ilocos Sur (travel time is roughly 8 to 10 hours via TPLEX and National Highway).
- Via Commercial Flights (Laoag Gateway):
- Fly into Laoag International Airport (Laoag City, Ilocos Norte) from Manila or Clark.
- From Laoag, take a southbound passenger bus or private car to Vigan City (approx. 1.5 to 2 hours drive).
- Via Private Car (Expressway Route):
- Drive northbound via NLEX, SCTEX, and TPLEX, exiting at Rosario, La Union, and continue straight along the McArthur Highway through Candon City to Vigan.
Where to Book Your Flight
Trip.com can give you huge discount if you book your flight to Laoag International Airport. Check the rates and book your flight here.
Discover amazing travel deals with Trip.com! By signing up using my referral link, you'll get up to $68 off flights, hotels, and more — and I'll earn rewards too. It's a win-win! Sign up here .
Travel by Bus
Skip the long lines and secure the best travel deals instantly — book your Ilocos bound bus or plane tickets here powered by 12Go — the fastest, hassle-free platform for comparing routes, schedules, and prices in one place.
Best Hotels to Stay in Ilocos Sur
Accommodations in Ilocos Sur range from restored colonial ancestral mansions to modern boutique hotels. Below are the Top 5 Best Hotels to Stay in Ilocos:
1. Henady Inn
Henady Inn offers affordable and comfortable accommodations for travelers exploring Vigan and nearby attractions. Guests can enjoy clean rooms, friendly service, and easy access to the city's historic sites. Book Henady Inn here and get a discounted price of 811 pesos per night.
👉 Find more hotel options on Agoda
2. Teofila Lodge
Teofila Lodge provides cozy accommodations with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Its strategic location allows guests to conveniently explore Vigan's heritage district and cultural landmarks. Book Teofila Lodge here while the price is 992 pesos per night.
👉 Find more hotel options on Hotels.com
Klook.com3. EA Apartelle
EA Apartelle offers budget-friendly lodging with spacious rooms and essential amenities. It is ideal for backpackers, business travelers, and groups looking for practical accommodations in Ilocos Sur. Book EA Apartelle here and get a discounted price of 1,440 pesos per night.
👉 Find more hotel options on Booking.com
4. Happy Grey Hotel
Happy Grey Hotel Vigan features modern rooms, contemporary amenities, and a convenient location near popular tourist destinations. It is an excellent choice for both leisure travelers and families visiting Ilocos Sur. Book Happy Grey Hotel here for as low as 998 pesos per night.
👉 Find more hotel options on Trip.com
5. Casa Glo Mer Transient
Casa Glo Mer Transient provides a home-like environment perfect for families and small groups. Guests can enjoy comfortable facilities and a relaxing stay while discovering the rich history and culture of Vigan. Book Casa Glo Mer Transient here and get a promo price of 1,227 pesos per night.
👉 Find more hotel options on Klook
Unlock travel deals with Klook! Get a ₱250 promo code instantly when you sign up using my referral link: Sign up here .
Please note that rates are subject to change without prior notice. Always confirm prices directly with the booking platform or hotel.
Airbnb
Ready to earn from your space? Sign up as a host through my referral link and start welcoming guests worldwide. Airbnb provides tools, support, and secure payouts to help you succeed. If you're done signing up, message me so I can add your property in this list.
Local Delicacies
Ilocos Sur is world-famous for its garlicky, savory, and crispy culinary creations:
- Vigan Empanada: A crispy orange rice-flour pastry stuffed with garlicky Vigan longganisa, shredded green papaya, egg, and dipped in spicy Iloco vinegar.
- Vigan Longganisa: Small, garlicky, and savory pork sausages seasoned with garlic and local vinegar, grilled or fried for breakfast.
- Bagnet: Deep-fried, extra-crispy pork belly slabs seasoned with salt, served with tomatoes, onions, and anchovy paste (bagoong monamon).
- Poqui-Poqui: A smoky Ilocano dish made of grilled eggplants sautéed with garlic, onions, tomatoes, and scrambled eggs.
- Royal Bibingka: A sweet, chewy rice cake baked with coconut milk, cheese, and margarine, sold hot at roadside bakeries around Vigan.
Travel Tips
- Explore Calle Crisologo at Night and Early Morning: Visit during dusk or dawn when street lights glow and crowds are sparse for the best photography.
- Bring Cash in Small Denominations: While major hotels accept card payments, local empanada stalls, caleza drivers, and souvenir shops operate strictly on cash.
- Wear Comfortable Footwear: Navigating cobblestone streets and heritage brick paths requires sturdy walking shoes or comfortable sandals.
- Respect Sacred and Historical Monuments: Follow photography rules inside churches and handle antique museum displays with care.
- Combine with Ilocos Norte: Extend your northern Luzon trip by traveling up north to Laoag, Paoay, and Pagudpud.
Final Thoughts
Ilocos Sur is a incredible destination where history, culture, and gastronomy come alive at every turn. Walking down the historic cobblestones of Calle Crisologo, admiring centuries-old brick belfries, and savoring hot Vigan empanadas created memories that stay with you long after your journey ends. Pack your bags, charge your camera lenses, and experience the timeless heritage of Ilocos Sur with Sirang Lente!
Nearby Attractions
Extend your northern Luzon road trip by exploring these fantastic destinations located close to Ilocos Sur:
- Paoay Church & Sand Dunes (Ilocos Norte): Explore the famous UNESCO World Heritage Paoay Church and 4x4 dune rides just an hour north.
- Tangadan Falls (San Gabriel, La Union): A picturesque waterfall and river trekking destination situated south in neighboring La Union.
- Pinsal Falls (Santa Maria, Ilocos Sur): The largest waterfall enclosure in the Ilocos region, famous for its natural hilltop pools.
- Laoag City (Ilocos Norte): The Sunshine City of the North featuring the Sinking Bell Tower and La Paz Sand Dunes.
As someone who has visited all provinces in the Philippines, I’ve created a complete guide to help you explore each one. Check out my Philippines Provinces Travel Guide here.
Related Posts
✈️ Earn While You Travel!
Join Travelpayouts today and start earning from flights, hotels, and travel services worldwide. Whether you’re a blogger, influencer, or simply love sharing travel deals, this is your chance to turn passion into profit.
🚀 Start Earning NowFree to join • Easy to use • Trusted by thousands of travel creators
No comments:
Post a Comment
Enter Comment Below: