Things To Do
in Alicia
Alicia is a quiet agricultural town in Isabela, located in the Cagayan Valley region of the Philippines. Its landscape features rolling rice fields, winding rivers, and farmland that stretches to the horizon. The town offers a laid‑back pace, friendly locals, and easy access to nearby natural escapes.
Visitors come to experience rural Filipino life, well‑preserved markets, and the region’s scenic countryside.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Ninoy Aquino International Airport and settle into your hotel in the vibrant area of Makati. Enjoy breakfast at a local café while soaking in the sights and sounds of the city. Take some time to rest and prepare for your adventure ahead.
Visit Rizal Park to learn about Philippine history and enjoy the greenery in the heart of the city. Head to the historic Intramuros, where you can explore the well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. Treat yourself to a sumptuous lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring traditional Filipino cuisine.
As twilight sets in, enjoy a leisurely walk along Manila Bay and witness the stunning sunset. Choose a rooftop bar to sip on refreshing cocktails while taking in panoramic views of the cityscape. Enjoy dinner at a trendy gastropub, where you can sample local and international dishes.
Catch an early flight to Cebu City and enjoy breakfast at a local market, tasting fresh tropical fruits and pastries. Visit Magellan's Cross, a historical site commemorating Ferdinand Magellan's arrival in the Philippines. Continue to Santo Niño Basilica, home to the oldest religious relic in the country.
Head to Fort San Pedro, a beautifully preserved fort that offers insights into the country's colonial past. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant famous for its Cebu lechon (roasted pig). Explore the vibrant streets of Colon, where you can shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs.
Savor a delightful dinner at a seaside restaurant, letting the gentle ocean breeze accompany your meal. Embrace the local nightlife by visiting a bar with live music, where you can enjoy traditional dances and local performances. Return to your hotel for a restful night after an exciting day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $12-25 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚲Bike or scooter rental (per day) | $6-12 |
| 🏨Basic hotel room (per night) | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Peaceful, rural charm with scenic landscapes
- Affordable and welcoming locals
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options
- Fewer direct international flight connections; requires domestic travel to reach
- "Magandang araw" - Good day
- "Saan ang banyo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Magkano ito?" - How much is this?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Pwede bang makatulong ka?" - Could you help me?
Places to Visit in Alicia
Visit one of these nice places.
Open plaza with the town’s municipal hall and early-morning light casting long shadows across the space.
Flat riverbank with golden light during sunset and reflections on the water.
Expansive paddies offering wide-angle compositions and rural atmosphere.
Food in Alicia
Alicia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Ilocano vegetable stew flavored with bagoong that showcases local greens and squash.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught river fish grilled over charcoal with a squeeze of calamansi and a dipping sauce.
A peanut-based stew adapted for a rural palate using locally grown vegetables and meat or skip-meat options.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A busy daily market offering fresh vegetables, river fish, fruits, kakanin, and grilled snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders politely; use courteous phrases and avoid raising your voice in public.
Ask before photographing people, especially in homes or markets.
Dress modestly and remove hats when inside churches; observe local rituals with respect.
Safety
Tipping in Alicia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory; rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common in restaurants.
Cash is widely used; many places accept debit/credit cards in larger towns. ATMs are available in Isabela towns like Cauayan or Ilagan.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry and hot; expect high daytime temperatures around 30–35°C (86–95°F) with clear skies and plenty of sunshine.
June–October brings frequent rain showers and potential typhoons; plan for muddy roads and afternoon showers.
Amihan months (roughly November–February) bring cooler evenings and pleasant daytime temperatures, ideal for outdoor activities.
Alicia at Night
Hiking in Alicia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate trails with rewarding viewpoints.
Flat trails along riverbanks suitable for easy hikes and birdwatching.
Airports
How to reach Alicia by plane.
Domestic flights; a typical drive from Alicia takes about 1–2 hours depending on road conditions.
Regional airport with more flight options; approximately a 3–4 hour drive from Alicia.
Major international gateway; reached via longer domestic travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant occupation groups in the area, with a strong sense of community.
A mix of locals and visitors attracted by markets and events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in town, with community leagues and school courts.
Traditional Filipino martial arts practiced in gymnasiums and parks.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Alicia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Focus on vegetable dishes like pinakbet, ampalaya stews, and fresh fruit; ask for no meat or fish stock and for bagoong-free options when possible.