Things To Do
in Solsona
Solsona is a quiet Ilocos Norte town that sits among rolling agricultural landscapes and offers a glimpse into traditional Ilocano life. Its atmosphere blends rural charm with subtle historic touches, from old churches to simple market stalls. Visitors are greeted by warm, friendly locals and straightforward, hearty regional flavors.
Expect cool evenings in the highlands and relaxed days exploring farms, markets, and scenic viewpoints.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
You’ll touch down at Laoag Airport before transferring to Solsona’s quaint town center, greeted by the gentle hills and waving rice paddies. A local guide will introduce you to the rhythms of daily life over a traditional Ilocano breakfast of bagnet and garlic fried rice. By midmorning, you’ll settle into a cozy homestay where hosts share stories of their farming heritage.
After lunch, stroll through the town plaza and meet community elders who recount Solsona’s Spanish colonial past around the centuries-old St. James the Great Parish Church. Venture into a nearby tobacco drying shed to learn about the rich heritage of Ilocos tobacco farming and witness leaves being hung to cure. End the afternoon with a refreshing coconut juice under a centuries-old acacia tree.
As dusk falls, savor a home-cooked meal of pinakbet and fresh river fish at your homestay, enjoying the warm glow of lanterns swaying in the evening breeze. Local musicians perform traditional Ilocano folk songs as you mingle with neighbors and sample homemade basi (sugarcane wine). Drift to sleep lulled by the soft crooning of night insects and distant church bells.
Begin your day with a short walk to St. James the Great Parish Church for an early-mass experience in this centuries-old adobe sanctuary. The morning rays filtering through stained glass bathe worshippers in hues of amber and crimson. After the service, chat with the parish priest about the church’s historic role in Solsona’s community life.
Enjoy a picnic lunch of empanada and fresh mango slices beneath the church’s ancient torreón (watchtower), then climb the spiral staircase for panoramic views of the town and surrounding farmland. Head next to the nearby convent museum to explore religious artifacts and Spanish-era relics preserved by local families. Wind down at a sidewalk café with a cup of barako coffee and sweet bibingka.
Return to your homestay for an evening of quiet reflection and storytelling around a crackling fire pit. Share a table with fellow travelers and hosts, indulging in freshly grilled tilapia and grilled vegetables. Look up at a canopy of stars, far brighter here than in the city, as you sample a final cup of warm ginger tea.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🥤Bottle of water | $0.50-1.50 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🚌Local transit fare | $0.20-1 |
| 🛍️Local souvenir | $2-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich Ilocano culture and hospitality
- Quiet, authentic town experience
- Affordable prices and welcoming locals
- Scenic rural landscapes and sunsets
- Limited nightlife and big-city amenities
- Fewer direct international flights and longer travel times
- Fewer upscale dining options compared to major cities
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Agyamanak" - Thank you
- "Ania ti nagan mo?" - What is your name?
- "Mangan tayon!" - Let's eat!
Places to Visit in Solsona
Visit one of these nice places.
Central square with tree-lined paths and colonial touches; ideal for golden hour shots and candid street scenes.
Colorful market stalls and early-morning activity provide vibrant, dynamic photographs of daily life.
Hilltop vantage point offering expansive views of farmland and distant hills—great for wide landscape photography.
Historic church with classic Ilocano ecclesiastical architectural features; excellent for architectural and atmospheric shots.
Food in Solsona
Solsona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory mix of vegetables stewed with bagoong (fermented fish or shrimp paste); a cornerstone of Ilocano cooking.
Must-Try!
Crispy, deep-fried pork belly with a crackling skin and rich flavor; commonly served with vegetables or as a topping.
A light eggplant dish sautéed with tomatoes, onions, and egg; easy to pair with rice for a comforting meal.
Crispy pastry filled with vegetables and egg; regional version can vary by market stall.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling morning market with produce, snacks, and Ilocano staples; a great place to observe local life and sample fresh bites.
A row of small stalls offering grilled fish, fried snacks, kakanin, and other quick local bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm smile and courteous language go a long way; address elders with polite terms and avoid raising your voice in public spaces.
Always ask for permission before photographing people or inside homes or religious sites; respect signage and private property.
Safety
Tipping in Solsona
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; 5-10% in restaurants if service charge is not included. At markets and for small guides, rounding up is common.
Cash is widely used and accepted; many places in towns accept debit/credit cards, especially larger establishments in markets or cafés. Carry small denominations for street vendors and transport.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with hot afternoons; carry water, a hat, and sunscreen. Cooler evenings at higher elevations make for comfortable sunset shoots.
Frequent rain and high humidity; bring a compact umbrella or light rain jacket and waterproof bags for gear.
November to February brings milder temperatures and clearer skies—great for outdoor activities and photography without the heat.
Solsona at Night
Hiking in Solsona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Moderate hike with panoramic views of plains and farmland; suitable for a half-day excursion.
Short hill climb to a lookout ideal for sunrise or sunset photography.
Airports
How to reach Solsona by plane.
Closest major gateway to Ilocos Norte; convenient connections to Manila and international destinations; straightforward land transfer to Solsona.
Primary gateway for international travelers; connect to Laoag or other regional airports for onward travel to Solsona.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The predominant ethnic group; strong agricultural heritage and close-knit community networks.
Residents engaged in farming, local markets, and family-run businesses; warm, hospitable communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple pastime in schools and communities; regular local games and informal courts.
Common among youth and adults; played on barangay fields and school facilities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Solsona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ilocano cuisine can be meat-forward; opt for pinakbet served without bagoong, grilled vegetables, or plain rice and vegetables. When ordering, request the dish without meat broth or fish sauce to keep it meat-free.