Mandaluyong Metro Manila, Philippines Travel Guide
This serves as the main international and domestic airport for Metro Manila. Mandaluyong's central location within Metro Manila makes it easily accessible from all NAIA terminals.
NAIA, a major hub, sees assistance from a wide array of airlines connecting Manila to global destinations.
Highest demand, colder temperatures, major holidays. Expect higher prices; book in advance.
Increased demand due to school holidays and hot dry season. Higher fares.
Wet season generally means lower demand and potentially cheaper flights.
Book international flights 3-6 months in advance for optimal prices.
Use Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner, then check airline direct sites for promotions.
Allow ample time for transfers between NAIA terminals due to potential traffic.
For travel to other provinces on Luzon from Metro Manila, a wide network of long-distance bus lines operates from various terminals. Companies like Victory Liner, Genesis Transport, Five Star, and JAC Liner serve routes to Northern Luzon (e.g., Baguio, Banaue) and Southern Luzon (e.g., Batangas, Laguna, Bicol).
Self-driving in Metro Manila is generally Not recommended for first-time foreign visitors. Traffic flow is notoriously heavy and often chaotic, traffic laws can be confusing, and local driving habits are aggressive. Consider renting a car with a driver if you prefer private transport.
If you still wish to pursue car rental, these resources can assist you:
Drive on the right-hand side of the road. Seatbelts are mandatory. Speed limits vary and are usually posted. Traffic enforcement can be inconsistent. Road conditions vary. Major highways are usually well-maintained, but secondary roads can be less so. Traffic congestion has a significant safety concern due to the risk of accidents and the sheer amount of time spent on the road.
The Manila Seaport (Port of Manila) serves as a major seaport. It functions as a place for international cruise ships and a hub for numerous domestic inter-island ferries. International cruise passengers undergo standard immigration and customs procedures at the Port of Manila. From the port, land transportation options (taxis, Grab) are accessible to reach Mandaluyong. Sea travel, while less common for international tourist arrivals directly to Mandaluyong, remains a significant mode of transport within the Philippines and for some international cruises.
The Pasig River Ferry Service operates along the Pasig River, which borders Mandaluyong to the north. While a form of public transportation, it does not are a main mode of international arrival or a major tourist transport option due to limited routes and fluctuating service reliability. It can present an unique perspective of the city but more as a local experience. From the Port of Manila, you easily access Mandaluyong via taxis, Grab, or local mass transitation (buses, jeepneys). Travel time significantly varies with Manila's notorious traffic congestion.
For international cruise/ferry arrivals, procedures mirror air travel: present passport, arrival card, and customs checks.
The Pasig River Ferry offers an unique, local perspective of the city, though with limited tourist focus.
Domestic ferries provide an affordable option for inter-island travel for locals and budget travelers.
For international flights departing from NAIA, the terminal fee is generally Included in the air ticket price since 2015. However, passengers verify this with their airline or ticket provider. If not part of the price, you pay it when you get to the airport before check-in. A Philippine travel tax applies to Philippine citizens and permanent residents. Foreign tourists generally stand exempt from this tax. Metro Manila traffic remains unpredictable. Always give yourself plenty of time to reach NAIA.
NAIA has a lot of facilities to make your waiting time comfortable.
Available for any last-minute currency needs or withdrawals.
Baggage wrapping and storage services are available.
Clear international immigration, then proceed to your assigned departure gate.
Familiarizing yourself with these transportation details promotes both your arrival and departure from Mandaluyong as efficient and stress-free as possible.
