Isabela Tourist Spots, Food, and Hotel Options
Planning a trip up north? Isabela might just be your next favorite destination. Welcome to your ultimate guide to the best Isabela tourist spots. If you want to escape the Manila heat or just want a break from Baguio's fog, Isabela offers a totally different vibe.
Why Visit Isabela?
Isabela is the second-largest province in the Philippines, but don’t let its size intimidate you. It only means more places to explore, more food to taste, and more selfies to take. Isabela is also known as the Rice Bowl of the North. So you know the food is legit.
Located in Region 2, or Cagayan Valley, Isabela is nestled between the Sierra Madre mountain range to the east and the Cordillera mountains to the west. This unique geography means you get a bit of everything—beaches, rivers, plains, and mountains. It is bordered by Cagayan, Kalinga, Mt. Province, Ifugao, Nueva Vizcaya, Quirino, and Aurora.
The province is made up of 34 municipalities and three cities: Ilagan City (the capital), Cauayan City, and Santiago City. Each one offers its own flavor, literally and culturally.
Isabela Map
The municipalities in Isabela are Alicia, Angadanan, Aurora, Benito Soliven, Burgos, Cabagan, Cabatuan, Cagayan, Delfin Albano, Dinapigue, Divilacan, Echague, Gamu, Jones, Luna, Maconacon, Mallig, Naguilian, Palanan, Quezon, Quirino, Ramon, Reina Mercedes, Roxas, San Agustin, San Guillermo, San Isidro, San Manuel, San Mariano, San Mateo, San Pablo, Santa Maria, Santo Tomas, and Tumauini.
Top Isabela Tourist Spots to Add to Your Itinerary
Want to experience the best of Isabela? These Isabela tourist attractions are a mix of chill, thrill, and wow. Here’s where to go when you’re in Isabela Province.
Ilagan Sanctuary: Ilagan City
Photo from Ilagan Sanctuary Facebook Page
One of the top Ilagan Isabela tourist spots, Ilagan Sanctuary is perfect for both nature lovers and adventure junkies. It features limestone caves, a butterfly garden, a mini zoo, and zip lines that will give your adrenaline a good jolt.
Ilagan Japanese Tunnel: Ilagan City, Isabela
Photo from Ilagan Japanese Tunnel Facebook Page
One of the lesser-known yet historically rich Ilagan Isabela tourist spots, the Ilagan Japanese Tunnel is a must-visit for history lovers and curious explorers. This World War II-era tunnel was used by Japanese forces as a hideout and storage area. It’s located near Bonifacio Park—perfect to pair with your visit to the Ilagan Sanctuary.
Tumauini Church: Tumauini, Isabela
This Spanish-era baroque church north of Ilagan City is a must-see tourist spot in Isabela, Philippines, especially for history lovers and architecture buffs. Built in the 1700s using red bricks, its cylindrical bell tower is one of a kind in the country. Tumauini Church is also on the tentative list for UNESCO World Heritage status.
Our Lady of the Pillar Parish Church: Cauayan City, Isabela
This historic church is one of the most notable Cauayan City, Isabela tourist spots. Built in the 1700s, it's a serene place for reflection and a great example of Spanish colonial architecture. The surrounding plaza is also perfect for a quiet stroll or a quick snack from nearby vendors.
Dibulo Falls: Dinapigue, Isabela
A hidden gem among Isabela tourist spots, Dibulo Falls rewards those who venture off the usual path. Located on the outskirts near Cauayan City, this majestic waterfall is the tallest waterfalls in Isabela. It's nature at its most raw and beautiful, so bring your IslaDry travel bath towel to dry off after the adventure.
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Magat Dam: Ramon, Isabela
Among the most iconic Ramon Isabela tourist spots, Magat Dam offers majestic views and tranquil vibes. It’s one of Southeast Asia’s largest dams and a great spot for picnics or drone shots. The scenic reservoir and surrounding hills are a photographer’s dream.
Our Lady of Atocha Church: Cordon, Isabela
This historic church is a standout Cordon Isabela tourist spot. Built during the Spanish era, it’s an architectural and spiritual landmark. Whether you’re on a soul-searching journey or just love heritage structures, this quiet beauty deserves a visit.
Balay na Santiago: Santiago City, Isabela
Among the most interesting Santiago City Isabela tourist spots, Balay na Santiago is part museum, part cultural time machine. Housed in a traditional bahay-na-bato, it showcases the city’s rich history through artifacts, exhibits, and antique furniture. Great for a quick cultural deep dive and definitely IG-worthy.
Palanan Beach: Palanan, Isabela
Yes, there is a beach in Isabela, and it’s a stunner. However, it’s only accessible by charter plane from Cauayan. Palanan Beach is off the beaten path but rewards you with pristine blue waters and peaceful sands. There are few crowds, so it's perfect for that quiet escape. After your swim, make sure to dry yourself with a portable travel bath towel like the IslaDry towel.
Check out our beach essentials packing list here.
Northern Sierra Madre Natural Park: Divilacan, Isabela
Photo from Northern Sierra Madre Park Facebook Page
This massive reserve is the crown jewel of wilderness in Luzon. As one of the must-visit places to visit in Isabela, Philippines, the park is teeming with biodiversity, ancient trees, and unspoiled landscapes. If you’re craving that raw, untamed vibe, this park delivers. It's literally a jungle out there.
What to Eat in Isabela: Isabela's Must-Try Dishes
Alam naming gutom ka na after all that traveling. Here are some classic dishes you must try while exploring Isabela province tourist spots.
■ Pancit Cabagan: You can’t say you’ve been to Isabela without tasting this. Saucy, meaty, and sarap to the last bite. Best paired with lumpia and suka.
■ Igado: Ilocano influence is strong in this region, and igado is proof. Think of it as pork adobo with a twist, with liver and veggies.
■ Inatata and Patupat: These are local kakanin, usually eaten during the holidays but available year-round in local markets (palengke) or local eateries.
Pansi Cabagan (Pancit Cabagan), Photo from Municipality of Cabagan
Top Restaurants in Isabela
Now you know what to eat, the question is, where can you find these? Here are the best restaurants in Isabela you shouldn’t miss:
■ Zein Panciteria and Coffee Shop – Famous for its Pancit Cabagan, this eatery in Ugad, Isabela, is a must-visit for noodle enthusiasts.
■ Aling Luring's Goto & Serkele – Located in Ilagan City, this spot is known for its hearty Filipino comfort food, particularly its goto and serkele dishes.
■ Charina's Grill – Situated in Santiago City, this grill house is popular for its wide selection of grilled meats and Filipino dishes.
■ Crocodile Grill – Crocodile Grill in Santiago City serves exotic dishes, including crocodile sisig. It’s wild, tasty, and a favorite stop for foodies exploring Isabela tourist attractions.
Where to Buy Pasalubong in Isabela
When in Isabela, don't forget to bring home some delightful pasalubong to share the province's unique flavors with your loved ones. Here are the best souvenir shops in Isabela:
■ City of Ilagan Pasalubong Center
■ My Kitchen Gourmet Delicacies & Pasalubong (Cauayan City)
■ Mangi Food Hauz and Pasalubong Center
Don’t miss out on classic pasalubong like Binallay, a sticky rice cake with latik; Moriecos, a sweet-filled suman; and the ever-famous Pancit Cabagan noodles. You can also grab longganisa, corn coffee, and tinubong, a rice cake cooked in bamboo.
Binallay, Photo from Epril Vinise Tiu, Daily Tuguegarao
Where to Stay: Isabela Hotels and Resorts
After a day of exploring places to visit in Isabela, Philippines, you deserve a good night’s rest. Here are some options depending on your travel budget and style.
Budget-Friendly Isabela Hotels
■ The Blanket Hotel Restaurant & Coffee (Cauayan): Clean, cozy, and affordable.
■ Dreamwave Hotel Santiago: Perfect stopover when traveling Cubao to Isabela.
Mid-Range Options
■ Mango Suites: Located in Cauayan. Walking distance to many restaurants.
■ Palladium Hotel: Chic and comfy, with decent amenities.
Luxury Resorts in Isabela
■ Kingsville Hotel Resort: A quiet Isabela resort with a pool and spacious rooms.
■ Ganza Hotel and Resort: One of the newer hotels where you can have a staycation.
Have your travel essentials ready when you choose to stay in transients, homestays, or Airbnbs. They may also not provide a towel, so make sure to bring a portable travel bath towel.
How to Get to Isabela Province
Getting to Isabela is easy, and you’ve got a few options depending on your budget, schedule, and adventure level. Here’s how you can reach this gem in Region 2:
By Air (Fastest Way)
The quickest route is via a direct flight from Manila to Cauayan Airport. Flights usually take around an hour. Perfect if you want to skip the looong bus ride and start exploring Isabela tourist spots ASAP. Cauayan is a convenient jump-off point to nearby attractions.
By Bus (Budget-Friendly Option)
Several bus companies like Victory Liner, Florida, and Five Star offer daily trips from Cubao to Isabela. You can get off in towns like Santiago, Cauayan, or Ilagan, depending on your itinerary. Travel time ranges from 8 to 10 hours, so bring snacks, power banks, and a neck pillow!
By Private Car (Road Trip Goals)
Up for a drive? Traveling Manila to Cauayan, Isabela by car takes about 8 to 9 hours. The roads are scenic and fairly smooth via NLEX, SCTEX, and Maharlika Highway. It’s a fun barkada or family trip if you enjoy cruising the countryside.
Check out our road trip essentials checklist here so you don’t miss out on bringing anything important.
From Nearby Provinces
If you're coming from places like Baguio to Santiag,o Isabela, travel by land is around 5–6 hours. You can ride a van, bus, or bring your own vehicle. It's an ideal route for those already exploring Northern Luzon.
Ready for Your Isabela Adventure?
Isabela has something for everyone. From Ilagan, Isabela tourist spot gems to delicious food trips in Santiago, Isabela is calling your name. Don't forget to bring your IslaDry portable bath towel because nothing dries you like IslaDry. And nothing beats being ready for the next adventure.
Let these Isabela tourist spots be just the start of your journey. Happy travels!