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The 9 Best Historic Walking Areas in Luzon, Philippines
Discover the best top things to do in Luzon, Philippines including Aroroy Lighthouse, Batad Rice Terraces, Banaue Rice Terraces, Calle Crisologo, Vigan Heritage Village, Intramuros, Zero Kilometer Death March Marker, Plaza de Santa Isabel, Lagusnilad Underpass.
Restaurants in Luzon
1. Aroroy Lighthouse
2. Batad Rice Terraces
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 689 reviews
Reviewed By 865cr - Washington DC, United States
We did a 3 day trek Day 1- Pula Cambulo, Day 2- Batad Day 3 short hike and back to Banaue. Day 1 was a long hike, but very nice and few people. Day 2 you arrive at Batad, definitely the most picturesque terraces, but also the most crowded with many tourists. You also visit the waterfall. You are done by 2:30pm and do nothing the rest of the day. Day 3- you do a 2 hour hike (very nice hike), then go back to Banaue, so if you are taking the night bus, you have 8+ hours to kill. Unless you are looking for downtime, I would just combine this into 2 days.
3. Banaue Rice Terraces
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 944 reviews
Spectacular terraces were carved out from mountain ranges some 2000 years ago with primitive handtools.
Reviewed By AjKamath - Hong Kong, China
This is one of the most spectacular views and landscapes in my opinion. The rice terraces are over 1000 years old and it is impressive to see how it was built back in those days where they did not have electricity and modern heavy machinery. The villages are still quite disconnected from the world - not many spots where you have good WiFi coverage- especially around Batad. That’s not necessarily a bad thing as you’re assured of time away from the usual city life and enjoy nature in the best way possible. The villagers are very friendly and welcoming. Getting there - take a bus from Manila, about 8 hours by road. Tickets can be booked online quite easily. Please beware of the extreme AC in the Coda (purple) bus!! Carry jackets n cover yourself to survive. They DO NOT adjust the temperature even if you’re freezing! Once there I think 2 days is more than enough to cover the region and visit all the important spots - Banaue view point, Batad village and view point, Ducligan Snake river, San Fernando, etc. I stayed at Bogah home stay and had an absolutely AMAZING experience. I recommend getting in touch with Denwil ([email protected]) who can organize everything at pretty good deals. I even got to stay with his family in Batad and help them harvest the rice :) one of the highlights of my trip and something that you can do in June-July if the rice is ready for harvest. The hikes are definitely not easy so recommend good hiking shoes and appropriate hiking clothes/gear. Do go with a guide to ensure you’re headed on the right path. It’s quite slippery - especially after rains. Food is good - not great. Carry your own supply of snacks etc. to be safe. Not too many shops sound so good to stock up on the necessities. Rice wine is also something worth trying - I got lucky to get some of the fresh distilled wine from the freshly harvested rice and it was GOOD! :) Overall - I definitely think it’s a MUST DO while in Philippines. Really amazing and experience that you will remember over time.
4. Calle Crisologo
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,062 reviews
Reviewed By neon_shores - Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Great place for culture vulture and foodie like me. Lots of photo ops on this street. Walking at night is lovely, try the sugar cane juice and the famous empanadas,
5. Vigan Heritage Village
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 58 reviews
Reviewed By altheanicoledimaano - Baguio, Philippines
At a young age i was able to visit and see the beauty of calle crisologo. I was stuned to see the structures of the old Hispanic wealthy spanish families living their life before. it was good that they were able to retain the beauty of the place, and you'll be able to see the famous cobblestone streets that represent Vigan's image.
6. Intramuros
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 3,550 reviews
Intramuros, "The Walled City," is the oldest district in Manila. This is what remains of the fortified city, which was the seat of power during Spanish Colonial times (1521-1898).
Reviewed By Z7953UVpaulp - Phuket, Thailand
I was worried and concerned about safety issue prior to my visit as many people warned me that this place is not safe. In fact, it is very safe especially during day time and i had a really good time here staying at bayleaf hotel. No problem at all. For those who are visiting Manila, it is recommended to spend for a day or two here. Things to do are tour by carlos during weekend (3hours) including horse ride etc, distiller museum, san augustine museum and church, cheap massage (300pesos) at same street where distiller museum is located, city wall, Barbara dinner with show, casa manila , manila national art museum (nearby).
