Luzon Travel Guide – Top Destinations Across Northern Philippines

Scenic view of Banaue Rice Terraces carved into the mountains of Ifugao

Jump to: About Luzon | Top Luzon Provinces | Must-Visit Destinations | Suggested Itinerary | Sample Budget | Where to Stay | Travel Tips

About Luzon

Luzon is the largest and most populous island in the Philippines, home to the national capital, towering mountains, rice terraces, heritage towns, and iconic volcanoes. From Batanes in the north to Bicol in the south, Luzon offers a diverse range of adventures for nature lovers, backpackers, and history buffs alike.

Top Luzon Provinces

  • Ilocos Norte: Windmills, sand dunes, and Spanish-era churches
  • Benguet: Home of Baguio and scenic mountain trails like Mt. Pulag
  • Ifugao: UNESCO-listed Banaue Rice Terraces
  • Batangas: Beaches, dive spots, and Taal Volcano
  • Albay: Perfect cone of Mayon Volcano and Cagsawa Ruins

Must-Visit Destinations in Luzon

  • 🏯 Vigan City (Ilocos Sur): Walk the cobblestone streets of Calle Crisologo
  • 🌾 Batad Rice Terraces (Ifugao): Trek through breathtaking heritage landscapes
  • 🌋 Mayon Volcano (Albay): Capture the perfect cone from Ligñon Hill or Cagsawa
  • 🌅 Pagudpud (Ilocos Norte): Relax at Saud Beach and Bangui Windmills
  • 🏕️ Mt. Pulag (Benguet): Climb to Luzon’s highest peak and witness the sea of clouds

Suggested 7-Day Luzon Itinerary

Day 1–2: Explore Ilocos Region (Vigan, Laoag, Pagudpud)
Day 3: Baguio City and Benguet side trips
Day 4: Trek Batad or Banaue Rice Terraces
Day 5: Baler (Aurora) for surfing and waterfalls
Day 6: Albay – Mayon Volcano and Legazpi
Day 7: Head back to Manila

Sample Travel Budget (7 Days)

  • Transportation: ₱2,000–₱4,000 (buses, vans, jeepneys)
  • Accommodation: ₱1,500–₱4,000 (hostels or budget hotels)
  • Food: ₱1,500–₱2,500
  • Entrance/Guide Fees: ₱500–₱1,000
  • Total Budget: ₱5,500–₱10,000+

Where to Stay in Luzon

  • Baguio: Budget lodges in Session Road area
  • Vigan: Heritage homestays near Calle Crisologo
  • Legazpi: Hotels with Mayon Volcano view

🏨 Book Luzon stays via Agoda (affiliate)

Travel Tips

  • Pack light but bring layers — Luzon has both hot lowlands and cold mountain towns
  • Try local delicacies like Vigan empanada, Bicol express, and Ilocos bagnet
  • Travel by bus or van for scenic overland routes — especially in the Cordillera
  • Use a travel pass or booking apps for discounted intercity rides

Final Thoughts

Luzon is a mix of mountains, beaches, heritage towns, and volcanoes — making it a great introduction to the Philippines for any traveler. Whether you're a weekend warrior or a long-term explorer, Luzon has something unforgettable waiting in every region.

Sea of clouds from the summit of Mt. Pulag at sunrise

Iconic view of Mt. Pulag and the Sea of Clouds

Also read: Cagayan, Apayao, Isabela Backpacking Itinerary – Palaui Island, Lussok Cave & More