How to Get to Manila. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Manila

Major Airports

Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) (MNL) serves Metro Manila. It operates across four terminals, each catering to specific airlines or flight types.

Terminal Designations

Terminal 1: mainly handles international flights (non-Philippine carriers).
Terminal 2: Dedicated to Philippine Airlines (domestic and international).
Terminal 3: Hosts Cebu Pacific, AirAsia Philippines, and international carriers.

Airlines & Routes

Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, and AirAsia Philippines are the main carriers. Numerous international airlines also serve Manila.

Global Connections

Direct flights from major hubs across Asia, North America, Europe, Middle East, and The seaia.
International airlines include Emirates, Qatar Airways, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, KLM.
Major cities like Los Angeles, London, Dubai, Tokyo, Sydney offer direct routes.

Direct Flights North America

Direct flights are available from cities like Los Angeles, The City by the bay, Vancouver, Toronto, and Honolulu.

Direct Flights Europe & Middle East

Direct connections from London, Amsterdam, Istanbul, Rome, Dubai, Doha, and Abu Dhabi.

Direct Flights Asia & Oceania

Well-connected to Singapore, Hong Kong special administrative region, Tokyo, Seoul, Taipei, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, Sydney, Melbourne.

Seasonal Flight Prices & Facilities

Flight Price Fluctuations

High Season (Dec-Feb): More expensive, book well in advance.
Shoulder Season (Mar-May, Nov): Slightly lower prices, can be elevated near Easter.
Low Season (Jun-Oct): Generally cheapest, but coincides with wet season and typhoon risk.
Dollar Flight Club for deal alerts.

Airport Facilities & Services

ATMs, currency exchange, duty-free shops.
Restaurants, cafes, airline lounges.
Free Wi-Fi (often with time limits), prayer rooms, medical clinics.
Tourist information desks, car rental, hotel booking kiosks.

Airport Transfers to City

Taxis & Ride-sharing

Metered taxis (yellow/white) are available. Grab (ride-sharing) provides upfront pricing and designated pick-up points.

Buses & Shuttles

Airport buses (UBE Express, Genesis Transport) offer routes to major hotels and commercial centers. Many hotels present transfer services.

Coupon Taxis

Fixed rate taxis available at arrival areas. More expensive but simple fare setting.

Land Journeys in Luzon

Long-Distance Bus Services

Numerous coach terminals operate across Metro Manila, serving different routes. Major hubs include Araneta City Bus Terminal (Cubao) and Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX).

Bus Companies & Routes

Prominent companies include Victory Liner, Genesis Transport, Five Star Bus.
Buses connect Manila to provinces across Luzon (Baguio, Vigan, Sagada, Batangas).
Bus comfort varies; book deluxe options for longer journeys.

Self-Driving Considerations

Driving in Manila is highly challenging due to heavy traffic, aggressive driving, and inconsistent road rules. Relying on ride-sharing or public transport is often less stressful.

Requirements & Challenges

Valid national driver's license and an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Extreme traffic, aggressive driving, complex road rules are daily realities.
Parking is difficult and often expensive.

Road Conditions & Safety

Main roads in Metro Manila are generally paved and in reasonable condition. Side streets can be narrow, congested, and prone to potholes. Flooding is common during the wet season.

Safety Concerns

Traffic accidents are frequent due to chaotic driving.
Pedestrians and motorcycles often disregard traffic laws.
Signs on the road are inconsistent or unclear for unfamiliar drivers.

Train & Ferry Connections

The Philippine National Railways (PNR) the system connects parts of Metro Manila and extends south. It is mainly used by locals for commuter services.

Rail & Sea Travel

PNR is not a preferred option for tourists owing to scarce comfort and reliability.
Inter-island ferries depart from Manila ports to major islands.
Companies like 2GO Travel operate courses to Cebu, Iloilo, Palawan.

Self-Driving Challenges

Driving in Manila has significant stress for unfamiliar drivers.
Traffic congestion is severe and unpredictable, affecting travel times.
Road rules often seem disregarded, creating chaotic situations.

Inconsistent signage makes navigation difficult.
Flooding during the wet season further complicates driving conditions.
Consider ride-sharing apps or public transport for ease of mind.

Sea & River Adventures

Inter-island Ferry Services

Manila North Harbor and Manila South Harbor serve as main ports for inter-island passenger ferries. Companies like 2GO Travel operate routes to major islands across the Philippines.

Inter-island Travel

Routes to Cebu, Iloilo, Palawan, and Mindanao.
An option for slower, more scenic travel.
Passengers on inter-island ferries undergo security checks, not immigration.

Pasig River Ferry Service

This service has an unique how to travel between various spots in the City of Manila and Pasig City, effectively bypassing road traffic.

River Transit

Stations include Plaza Mexico, Escolta, Lawton, Santa Ana, Guadalupe.
Service hours are limited and operations suspend due to water levels or adverse weather.
Ferry stations are generally near public transport hubs for connections.

Inter-island Ferry Travel

Companies like 2GO Travel connect Manila to other major Philippine islands.

Cruise Ship Arrivals

Manila South Harbor occasionally welcomes international cruise ships.

River Transport Details

The Pasig River Ferry offers an unique perspective and traffic-free travel.

Departure Information

Exit Fees or Taxes

Terminal fees for international and domestic flights are commonly in the airline ticket price. Always confirm this when purchasing your ticket.

Terminal Fees

International Passenger Service Charge (₱550), typically included.
Domestic Passenger Service Charge (₱200), typically included.
Check your ticket or airline's website for make sureation.

Departure Procedures & Timing

Traffic to NAIA can be severe and unpredictable. Allow ample time for your journey to the airport.

Recommended Arrival Times

International Flights: Arrive at least 3-4 hours before scheduled departure.
Domestic Flights: Arrive at least 2-3 hours before departure.
Procedures: check-in, baggage drop, security, immigration (international), gate.

Airport/Station Facilities for Departing Travelers

Shopping & Dining

Duty-free shops, a wide selection of restaurants and cafes.

Amenities

Airline lounges, currency exchange, ATMs, free Wi-Fi.

Passenger Comfort

These amenities make your waiting time more comfortable.

Smooth Departure Checklist

Confirm terminal fees are covered, allow plenty of travel time to the airport, and check your flight status beforehand for a stress-free departure.

How to Get to Manila