How to get to Manila

Manila is a dynamic metropolis and the historic heart of the Philippines, located on the coast of Luzon Island. When planning how to get to Manila, travelers most often choose air travel, as the city serves as the main aerial gateway to the archipelago; however, one can also arrive by bus or car from neighboring provinces. A trip to this city of contrasts, combining modern skyscrapers and colonial architecture, will be an excellent start to exploring the country.

The main aerial gateway for travelers is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL). It is located directly within the metropolis, making it the most convenient point of arrival. The airport handles the vast majority of international flights, connecting Manila with major cities in Asia, the Middle East, and other regions.

Alternatively, consider arriving at Clark International Airport (CRK), located approximately 80 kilometers north of the capital of the Philippines. This option is often chosen by tourists wishing to save on low-cost carrier tickets or avoid the capital's traffic upon landing. You can get from Clark to the city center via direct P2P buses or taxis; travel time is usually about one and a half to two hours.

When planning a trip, it is important to note that getting to Manila by train from remote corners of the country is practically impossible. Rail transport in the Philippines is underdeveloped, and there are no long-distance trains familiar to many tourists. This mode of transport is not a primary method of travel between regions of the archipelago.

The only operating system is the Philippine National Railways (PNR) lines, which function as commuter trains. They connect the capital with some nearby cities to the south; however, these routes are oriented primarily towards local residents commuting to work and are rarely convenient for travelers with luggage. For travel around Luzon Island, it is much more reliable and comfortable to use the extensive network of intercity buses.

The bus network on Luzon Island is excellently developed, connecting Manila with neighboring provinces via regular and affordable trips. Travelers often arrive from the city of Mabalacat: a journey along the expressway of about 90 kilometers takes approximately one and a half to two hours. Even closer is Santa Maria, from where you can reach the capital's terminals in just an hour, covering a distance of 30–40 kilometers.

Routes from the south often involve more complex logistics, for example, the journey from the city of Calapan on Mindoro Island. Such a trip covering about 130 kilometers will require 4 to 6 hours, as it includes a ferry crossing to the port of Batangas before transferring to a bus to the metropolis. Most intercity liners are equipped with powerful air conditioning, making the long road quite comfortable.

A trip by car to Manila is the choice of travelers who value independence but are ready to face the metropolis's heavy traffic. From the north, it is most convenient to travel from the city of Mabalacat via the NLEX toll road: the distance of 90 kilometers is usually covered in 1.5–2 hours. You will reach the city even faster from the municipality of Santa Maria, located just 35 kilometers from the capital's borders; a trip by taxi or rented car will take about an hour if you leave outside of rush hour.

The route from the south, for instance from the city of Calapan, is more complex and scenic, as it requires using a RORO ferry to transport the vehicle across the strait. The entire journey of about 130 kilometers will take from 4 to 5 hours, after which you will enter the SLEX expressway leading to the business center of the Philippines. For long trips, it is recommended to agree on a fixed price with the driver in advance or use official taxi apps, where a trip from the suburbs can cost between 20 to 50 dollars depending on the distance.

To ensure your trip to Manila is as comfortable as possible and leaves only pleasant impressions, it is worth learning about local features in advance. We have collected useful recommendations to help you easily navigate the capital of the Philippines.

1. Clothing and Essentials: The climate in the city is hot and humid year-round, so opt for loose clothing made of natural fabrics such as cotton or linen. However, be sure to bring a light cardigan or scarf: air conditioners in shopping malls, cinemas, and buses often operate at full power, and it can feel quite cold if you are not used to it.
2. Transport: Traffic in the metropolis is very dense, and traffic jams are a common occurrence. For comfortable and safe movement, it is best to use taxi-hailing apps such as Grab. The famous jeepneys (local minibuses) are worth trying for the exotic experience on short distances, but their routes can be difficult for a newcomer to understand.
3. Finances: The local currency is the Philippine Peso. Although major hotels and malls accept cards, cash is always needed for transport fares, purchases in small shops, and markets, preferably in small denominations. It is safer and more favorable to exchange money at official banks or licensed exchange points in shopping centers.
4. Health and Safety: Drink only bottled water and avoid drinks with ice in street cafes if you are unsure of its quality. It is also recommended to use insect repellent, especially in the evening and when visiting parks. In crowded tourist spots, keep an eye on your belongings and wear your backpack on your front to avoid pickpocketing.
5. Communication: English is one of the official languages in the country, so the language barrier is practically non-existent here. Most signs, menus, and directions are duplicated in English, and locals will willingly help you if you ask them a question.
6. Local Etiquette: Filipinos are known for their friendliness and hospitality. It is customary to smile when interacting and to remain calm in any situation. Raising your voice or showing aggression is considered extremely impolite and can lead to "losing face," which locals try to avoid.
7. What to Avoid: Do not display expensive gadgets and jewelry on busy streets outside of safe districts (such as Makati or Bonifacio Global City). Also, try not to plan trips to the airport too close to your flight time: the traffic situation can change in a matter of minutes.
8. Extra Tip: Always carry small change (coins and bills of 20, 50, or 100 pesos). Taxi drivers and vendors often do not have change for large banknotes, and having small money will save you time and hassle.

Following these simple rules will allow you to focus on exploring the rich history and vibrant culture of the city without being distracted by minor inconveniences. Manila is a dynamic and contrasting metropolis that reveals its best side to those who are ready for its rhythm.