Regions

Welcome to Ilocos Region

Written by Patrick

ABOUT SEE & DO EAT & DRINK STAY FESTIVALS NEARBY

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ABOUT

Ilocos is a region in the Philippines, encompassing the northwestern coast of Luzon island. Ilocos Region is known for its historic sites, beaches, and the well-preserved Spanish colonial city of Vigan. Dating from the 16th century, Vigan’s Mestizo district is characterized by cobblestone streets and mansions with wrought-iron balconies. Farther north, Laoag City is a jumping-off point for the huge La Paz Sand Dunes.

Location

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Best Time to Visit

For the best combination of agreeable temperatures of around 27° C (80° F) and as little rain as possible, the best time to visit this region is between February and March. The first months of dry season can still be rainy, while the last months are usually pretty hot and humid.

Fast Facts

Area: 13,012.60 km² (5,024.19 mi²)

Population: 5,301,300

Density: 370/km2

Regional Center: San Fernando, La Union

Languages: Ilocano; Pangasinan; Bolinao; English; Filipino

Provinces: 

REGION 1 – Ilocos Region

PROVINCELAND AREA KM2POPULATION
Ilocos Norte3,467.89609,600
Ilocos Sur2,596.00706,100
La Union1,497.70822,400
Pangasinan5,451.013,163,200
Total
13,012.605,301,300

Cities: (9) Alaminos; Batac; Candon; Dagupan; Laoag; San Carlos; San Fernando; Urdaneta; Vigan

Barangays: 3,267

Major Industries:

  • Crops (Palay, Corn, Banana, Mango, Tomato, Tobacco, Coconut)
  • Food Processing
  • Mass Transportation Operation
  • Aqua Culture
  • Mining

Getting Here

The best way to get to Ilocos Region depends on where you’re traveling from and your budget.

The fastest and most convenient method of travel a far distance in the Philippines is most often by plane, however in some cases, traveling by sea or land may be a better option and more cost-effective.

AIRPORTS

Airport

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BUS TERMINALS

Bus Terminal

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SEAPORTS

Seaport

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Use the following online service to determine the various transportation options available to you based on your point of departure and your destination.

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Getting Around

The following are the modes of transportation available in this region. 

Bus

Bus

Car for Hire

Car for Hire

Car Rental

Car Rental

Jeepneys

Jeepneys

Shuttle

Shuttle

Taxi

Taxi

Tricycles

Tricycles

Motorcycles

Motorcycles

Bicycles

Bicycles

Suggested Budget

Use the chart below to get an idea of how much to budget daily.  Actual amounts will depend on YOUR travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages … some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less. Prices are in USD.

ACCOMMODATION
FOOD
TRANSPORTATION
ATTRACTIONS
AVERAGE DAILY COST
Budget
Accommodation: $9
Food: $8
Transportation: $5
Attractions: $20
Average Daily Cost: $42
Mid-Range
Accommodation: $35
Food: $15
Transportation: $10
Attractions: $30
Average Daily Cost: $90
Luxury
Accommodation: $145
Food: $35
Transportation: $20
Attractions: $40
Average Daily Cost: $240
 

BEST NO-FEE INTERNATIONAL DEBIT & CREDIT CARDS

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CAPITAL ONE VENTURE CARD

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SEE & DO 

EAT & DRINK

  • Alaminos Longanisa (Pangasinan)
  • Bagnet (Ilocos Norte)
  • Bagnet Pizza (Ilocos Sur)
  • Bagoong (Pangasinan)
  • Bangus (Pangasinan)
  • Batac Empanada (Ilocos Norte)
  • Binalonan longganisa (Pangasinan)
  • Binungey (Pangasinan)
  • Halo-halo de Iloko (La Union)
  • Ilocos Norte Burrito (La Union)
  • Kilawen (La Union)
  • La Union Fried Chicken (La Union)
  • Longganisa (Ilocos Norte)
  • Pigar-pigar (Pangasinan)
  • Pinakbet (Ilocos Norte)
  • Poqui-poqui (Ilocos Norte)
  • Puto Calasiao (Pangasinan)
  • Romana Peanut Brittle (Pangasinan)
  • Vigan empanada (Ilocos Sur)
  • Vigan longaniza (Ilocos Sur)

WHERE TO STAY

Where to Stay in Ilocos Region

Use the following online resources to determine the best place for YOU to stay when visiting the Ilocos region.

Book Online & Save Money

Book your room with these trusted online booking sites.  Booking online in the Philippines almost always guarantees the best price and a room when you arrive.  We use these sites frequently to get the best prices and enjoy convenient bookings. Click each of the buttons below to find the best place for you at the lowest rates or use the form below.

EVENTS & FESTIVALS

  • Bangus Festival

WHAT’S NEARBY

READ MORE: 17 Regions of the Philippines (with map)

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About the Author

Patrick

Patrick is an entrepreneur, digital nomad, explorer, and photographer. Patrick is always in search of fun and adventure. He is well travelled throughout the world, and although location independent, his home base is Phoenix, Arizona in the USA. Patrick loves island lifestyle which is no wonder why he is so interested in spending time in the Philippines with it’s over 7,000 islands. Patrick created this site to share his knowledge of and experiences in the Philippines with Filipinos as well as other foreigners.

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