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Getting Around Manila

Getting Around Manila

Manila Metro Manila, Philippines Travel Guide

Public Transit Overview

Manila operates Tram Transit (LRT) Lines 1 and 2, and Metro Rail Transit (MRT) Line 3. These connect various parts of Metro Manila, including historic areas and business districts. The Philippine National Railways (PNR) service also runs commuter trains.

City buses, jeepneys, and UV Express vans cover extensive routes. Jeepneys are iconic and cheap. UV Express vans are air-conditioned and often faster.

Metro & Rail Systems

  • LRT-1 (Green Line): North-south from Quezon City to Pasay.
  • LRT-2 (Blue Line): East-west from Manila to Antipolo City.
  • MRT-3 (Yellow Line): Along EDSA, connecting business districts.
  • PNR: Commuter train service, less used by tourists.

Ticketing & Fares

The Beep Card is a reloadable contactless smart card for LRT/MRT. Cash payments for jeepneys/buses. Fares vary by distance (LRT/MRT ₱15-₱30, jeepney ₱13+).

Operating Hours

LRT/MRT generally operate starting AT 5:00 AM to 10:00-11:00 PM. Buses/Jeepneys/UV Express run early morning until late evening, some 24/7 on major thoroughfares.

Accessibility

Public transportation systems in Manila are generally not wheelchair accessible. Stations may lack ramps or elevators. Pavements are often uneven and crowded.

Navigation Tips

Strategic Travel
  • Avoid peak hours (7-9 AM and 5-8 PM) to lessen crowds and congestion delays.
  • Use a Beep Card for easy travel on train lines and some buses.
  • Download navigation apps like Google Maps for public transport routes.
Safety on Public Transport
  • Be aware of your belongings in crowded public transport and stations.
  • Guard against pickpocketing, keep valuables out of sight.
  • Ask people from the area or staff for route clarifications if unsure.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Look for white sedans with "TAXI" sign. Insist on meter use. Yellow airport taxis are regulated.

Ride-Sharing Grab

Dominant app. Offers GrabCar, GrabTaxi, GrabBikes. Upfront pricing and cashless payment.

Fares & Payment

Taxi flagdown ₱40 + ₱13.50/km. Cash for taxis. Grab with card or GrabPay.

Safety & Best Practices

For taxis, use meter, note plate number. Grab safer due to tracking. Avoid unlicensed vehicles.

Vehicle Rentals & Local Transport

Renting a vehicle has independence, but consider Manila's challenging driving conditions. Local options offer unique ways to travel shorter distances.

Car & Motorcycle Rentals

  • Requires valid national driver's license, IDP, and major credit card.
  • Driving in Manila is for experienced drivers comfortable with heavy traffic.
  • Motorcycle/scooter rentals are not recommended for tourists due to safety.
  • International chains (Avis, Hertz) and local companies operate here.

Bicycles & Tricycles

  • Limited bicycle lanes. Not safe for casual city cycling on busy streets.
  • Rentals available in Intramuros for leisure rides within the walled city.
  • Tricycles (motorcycles with sidecars) for short distances in local areas.
  • Pedicabs (bicycles with sidecars) in Intramuros and small districts. Negotiate fares.

Driving & Parking Rules

  • Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
  • Everyone must wear a seatbelt.
  • Speed limits vary, often disregarded.
  • Street parking is limited and difficult to find.
  • Malls and commercial buildings offer multi-story multi-story car parks (with fees).
  • Flooding is a major issue on roads during the wet season.

Specialty Transport Pedicabs

Pedicabs

Bicycles with a sidecar, common in Intramuros and small districts.

Fare Negotiation

Always negotiate the fare before starting your ride to avoid disputes.

Short Distances

Ideal for short-distance travel where larger vehicles are impractical.

Walking & Cycling the City

Exploring Manila on foot or by bicycle has unique perspectives in certain areas, specifically those with dedicated pedestrian zones or less traffic.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Intramuros: The walled city is very easy to walk around and ideal for exploration.
  • Rizal Park: A sprawling park excellent for walking and leisurely strolls.
  • Makati CBD (Ayala Center, Greenbelt): Features skywalks and pedestrian zones.
  • Bonifacio Global City (BGC): Modern district with wide sidewalks, pleasant for walking.

Walking Tours

  • Guided tours: Many companies offer walking tours, especially in Intramuros (e.g., bambike tours).
  • Food tours: Popular in Binondo Chinatown for culinary exploration.
  • Self-guided: Use maps or apps to explore areas at your own pace.
  • These tours offer a dive into Manila'its past and culture.

Cycling Safety & No-Go Zones

Cycling Infrastructure

Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited outside of BGC and Intramuros.

Use caution in traffic.

Cycling Safety

Cycling on busy Manila streets is generally not safe for casual tourists.

Heavy traffic and aggressive driving are common.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians

Avoid walking or cycling in areas with extremely heavy traffic, narrow or no sidewalks, and high crime rates.

Exercise caution in crowded markets at night.

Specialized Transportation

Tour Buses & Water Taxis
  • Some tour operators present guided urban excursions via bus.
  • Hop-on-hop-off services are less common but could exist seasonally.
  • The Pasig River Ferry Service functions as a boat taxi, mainly for commuters.
Accessibility Services
  • Accessibility for people with mobility challenges is very limited.
  • Newer malls, hotels, and a few modern attractions may have ramps and elevators.
  • Private transport or specialized tour services are necessary for mobility needs.

No Cable Cars or Funiculars

  • Manila does not have cable cars or funiculars.
  • Jeepneys, tricycles, and pedicabs represent the city's unique local transport options.
  • Do not expect these types of transport here.
  • Focus on common and specialized local vehicles.
  • The main public transport relies on roads and rails.
  • River ferry offers a water-based alternative.
  • Plan your routes considering available local transport.
  • Local transport is to experiencing Manila.

Final Transport Insight

Embrace the local transport options for an authentic experience, or opt for ride-sharing for convenience.

Allocate ample time for travel, especially during peak hours, and appreciate the city's movement.

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