Ilocos Region Tourist Spots: Cultural and Heritage Sites
Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte are a home to natural and historical sites that tell the story of the Philippine’s rich heritage. These provinces sit along the northwestern tip of the country. They have become a popular destination for travelers since they are accessible from the country’s metropolitan center, Metro Manila, even if they are 367 KM away.
Ilocos have a deeply-rooted culture that dates back centuries. And if you’re planning on looking for the best cultural destinations in Ilocos, you’ve come to the right places! With this list, you can dive into some wonderful tourist destinations and gain insight of Ilocos’s thriving culture and history.
Calle Crisologo
Calle Crisologo is one of the most beautiful streets in the Philippines. The centuries-old Spanish-style homes surround this 500-meter-long avenue. It’s a pedestrian-only area and tourists can explore the street on their own feet or ride a horse-drawn carriages locally known as kalesas.
Paoay Church
Saint Augustine Church, or most commonly known as “Paoay Church” has been recognized by UNESCO as a UNESCO World Heritage Site under the “Baroque Churches of the Philippines” group. The national government also honored the church for its historical significance. They even named it as one of the country’s National Cultural Treasures in 1973.
Bantay Church Bell Tower
Bantay Church Bell Tower is one of the oldest bell towers in the region which dates back to 1591. Sitting on top of a hill that overlooked the Bantay district in northeast Vigan, travelers can simply admire the red brick tower from the foot of the hill or can climb a set of stairs to the tower’s entrance and see the large metal bell. They can also be rewarded with a breathtaking view of the surrounding area once they reach the top.
Patapat Viaduct
The Patapat Viaduct goes on for 12 kilometers, making it one of the longest bridges in the Philippines. It is located at the foot of the cliff of the Northern Cordillera Mountain Range in the municipality of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte. Tourists often stop by the side of the bridge to take in the view and take photos with the stunning bay and its azure waters as their backdrops.
Vigan Cathedral
Vigan Cathedral, also called the Saint Paul Metropolitan Cathedral, is one of the most iconic Ilocos churches. Standing in front of the city’s Plaza Salcedo, this cathedral is hard to miss and is one of the must-see tourist spots in Vigan. Due to its proximity to the plaza, many travelers also have their photos taken between the two historical sites.
Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte are rich with treasures contributing to the Philippines’ overall charm.
