Capital city in Metro Manila, Philippines
Getting around Manila
How to get around Manila
Trains avoid the traffic but cover little ground. Most trips are Grab, plus jeepneys, buses and tricycles. Allow double the time you expect at rush hour.
Ways to get around Manila
| Option | Fare | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| LRT-1, LRT-2 and MRT-3 | 15–40 PHP | Stored-value Beep card; MRT-3 along EDSA, crowded at rush hour |
| EDSA Busway (Carousel) | 15–75 PHP | Dedicated bus lane along EDSA from Monumento to Taft |
| Jeepney | 14–30 PHP | Cheapest; routes are painted on the side, cash only |
| Grab / Angkas | 150–300 PHP for 5 km | Most practical for visitors |
Ride-hailing apps in Manila
A 5 km ride costs about ₱150–300 ($2.4–4.8).
| App | Notes |
|---|---|
| Grab | Most reliable; cars, taxis and bikes, airport pickups |
| Angkas | Motorcycle taxis for beating traffic |
| JoyRide | Motorcycle taxis and cars, often cheaper |
| inDrive | Name your fare; useful at peak times |
- White taxis are fine if the meter runs; refuse flat fares. Grab is easier, but surge pricing hits in rain and rush hour.
Arriving in Manila
Ninoy Aquino International (NAIA) (MNL)
Grab 300–600 PHP to Makati or BGC, 30–90 min; coupon and yellow airport taxis cost more. Terminals are far apart; check yours.
Driving and onward travel
- Scooters: Not worth it: chaotic traffic and floods. Use Angkas or Grab bikes or take a car.
- 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 Manila?
No. Use Grab, Angkas, JoyRide, inDrive instead.
What's the best way to get around Manila?
Trains avoid the traffic but cover little ground. Most trips are Grab, plus jeepneys, buses and tricycles. Allow double the time you expect at rush hour.
How do I get from the airport to Manila?
Grab 300–600 PHP to Makati or BGC, 30–90 min; coupon and yellow airport taxis cost more. Terminals are far apart; check yours.
Is Manila walkable?
Walkable center.
More about Manila
Going to Manila solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Manila 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
- Manila International Airport Authority (NAIA)
- LRT-1 (Light Rail Manila Corporation)
- Grab Philippines
- Department of Tourism
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.