City in Davao del Sur, Philippines
Getting around Davao
How to get around Davao
Jeepneys and modern buses cover set routes cheaply; Grab is the easiest for visitors. Tricycles are limited in the center. A day trip to Samal needs a short ferry.
Ways to get around Davao
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Jeepney | From 13 PHP | Shared minibuses on fixed routes; hand your fare forward |
| Grab | About 120–220 PHP for 5 km | Cars and motorbikes; easiest for the airport and malls |
| Metered taxi | About 50 PHP flag-down | White taxis are plentiful; insist on the meter |
| Samal Island ferry | About 20–100 PHP | Roll-on ferries and small boats from Sasa and Santa Ana |
Ride-hailing apps in Davao
A 5 km ride costs about ₱120–220 ($1.9–3.5).
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| Grab | Cars and motorbikes citywide; best option for the airport |
- Taxis should use the meter. Airport taxis often quote flat rates; use Grab or the airport coupon counter.
Arriving in Davao
Francisco Bangoy International (DVO)
About 10 km from downtown: Grab or metered taxi about 250–400 PHP, 20–40 min depending on traffic.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Rentals exist but are less common than elsewhere; helmets are enforced and traffic is heavy.
- Driving: on the right. Foreign licences are valid for 90 days after arrival; non-English licences need an official translation or IDP.
- Onward travel in Philippines: Fly between islands (Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, AirAsia); ferries and fast craft link neighbouring islands. Weather cancels boats and flights, so keep buffer days.
Quick answers
Is there Uber in Davao?
No. Use Grab instead.
What's the best way to get around Davao?
Jeepneys and modern buses cover set routes cheaply; Grab is the easiest for visitors. Tricycles are limited in the center. A day trip to Samal needs a short ferry.
How do I get from the airport to Davao?
About 10 km from downtown: Grab or metered taxi about 250–400 PHP, 20–40 min depending on traffic.
Is Davao walkable?
You'll need transport.
More about Davao
Going to Davao solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Davao meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- Philippine Airlines
- Cebu Pacific
- Philippine Department of Tourism
- Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines
- Grab Philippines
Fares are typical 2026 prices; check the operator for today's fares. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.