Kamusta, my dear travellers!
Your journey to the Philippines has brought you to Manila, a city full of movement, colour and character. There’s a lot to behold, from the familiar sight of jeepneys navigating through the bustling streets to the impressive skyline looming over the city. Once you’ve gone through the airport arrivals area, you’ve entered the next stage of your Philippine adventure.
But then comes a small question – how to get from manila airport to city?
When you go into the city, is it best to take a Grab, a taxi or a bus? How much should you budget for your journey?
After a long flight, all you want is a comfortable ride and some time to relax – your selection can make a difference. Fortunately, there are multiple options for getting to Manila and its environs from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).
Knowing what means of transportation are available can make for a much smoother arrival, whether you’re travelling home to see family or embarking on a longer journey to the Philippines.
Thus, before you go outside, let’s look at the transport options available, compare the prices and find the best way to start your Philippine holiday.
Manila Airport to City Centre: What Should You Know?
The main international airport serving the Philippine capital region is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) also known as Manila International Airport. It is open to tourists from all over the world and links them to places around the country.
An important thing to note is that there is no MRT or LRT train station in Manila Airport. Visitors mostly enter the city via road, by ride-hailing, airport taxi, bus or pre-booked private transfer.
It’s also a good idea to understand the difference between Manila city and Metro Manila. The historic capital is Manila City which features Intramuros, Rizal Park, Binondo and many others. Metro Manila is a far bigger metropolitan area that comprises Makati, Pasay, Taguig, Quezon City and other cities.
This means your journey will vary according to your accommodation’s location.
For instance, a trip from a hotel in the business district of Makati will differ from one within the Intramuros or Bonifacio Global City (BGC) where shopping is in the center.
Another key factor to consider is the traffic. Remember that on a map, your hotel may appear to be very close to the airport, but if it is, the trip may take longer than you think, especially during rush hour or in the rain.
A minor travel tip: Make sure to save your hotel’s complete address on your phone before you make a travel plan. If you are aware of the exact destination, you will not get confused at the time of booking a ride and will be able to compare fares.
How to Get from Manila Airport to the City Centre: Comparing Your Transport Options
Travelling from Manila Airport to the city centre is straightforward, with several transport options to suit different budgets and preferences which cater for different budgets and time preferences. A Grab car can be booked to travel directly to your destination, airport taxi service or an airport bus are more economical options.
It is helpful to compare the estimated costs and convenience and suitability of each option before deciding.
| Transport option | Estimated cost | Suitable for |
| Grab | ₱200–₱600+ per vehicle | Travellers looking for convenient, door-to-door transport |
| Airport coupon taxi | Fixed fare based on destination | Visitors who prefer arranging transport at the airport |
| UBE Express bus | Varies by route | Budget-conscious travellers |
| Private airport transfer | Depends on vehicle type and destination | Families, groups and travellers seeking a pre-arranged journey |
Please Remember: These are indicative planning figures not guaranteed fares. Grab prices are subject to change depending on demand, traffic and availability. The charges for a taxi ride to or from the airport are based on the destination-based rate, and charges and schedules for UBE Express differ by route. Please refer to the up-to-date information before travelling.
Both options come in a variety of price, comfort and convenience combinations. Let’s take a closer look at how they work, the prices you may find and which one you might want to choose for your trip.
The NAIA Grab is a convenient option for travellers
If this is your first visit to the Philippines, Grab is one of the most convenient apps to get from the airport.
It operates via a mobile app and enables you to input your destination, pick a vehicle and view the price before you book! It’s possible to track your driver’s location and share your trip information.
This is especially beneficial for international visitors after long flights. Do not bother to negotiate a fare or give complicated directions for places to go. Booking a ride from NAIA to Manila City is straightforward when using the app.
How to book Grab at NAIA
- Download the Grab app before travelling to the Philippines.
- Connect to airport Wi-Fi or use your mobile data.
- Open the app and select the car booking option.
- Type your hotel name or complete address destination.
- Check the available vehicle types and fares.
- Confirm your booking and follow the collection instructions.
In which location do you need to meet your Grab driver?
Pick-up locations vary between terminals.
- Terminal 1: Grab pick-up points at NAIA Grab pick-ups use designated arrival extension bays C6–C9, according to the current Grab guidance.
- Terminal 2: Follow the terminal’s Grab pick-up instructions and designated collection points.
- Terminal 3: Take pick-up from the Multi-Level Parking Building, Level A (Follow the signs and contact the Grab queueing staff near the Multi-Level Parking Building).
Arrivals Gate 7 before entering the loading area
- Terminal 4: Check the current Grab app or airport staff instructions before arranging your collection.
- At Terminal 3, passengers should not enter the loading area until instructed by the Grab staff. The pick-up point is a managed collection point.
Always check the latest instructions in your app because airport arrangements can change.
How much does Grab from NAIA cost?
Grab fares depend on the destination, the type of vehicle, demand and traffic.
The following are approximate published fares to select destinations (for budgeting purposes):
| Destination | Estimated Grab fare |
| One Ayala, Makati | ₱200–₱300 |
| Mall of Asia, Pasay | ₱250–₱350 |
| BGC, Taguig | ₱280–₱380 |
| PITX, Parañaque | ₱220–₱320 |
| SM Megamall, Ortigas | ₱270–₱370 |
| Trinoma, Quezon City | ₱440–₱540 |
These estimates are per vehicle, not per passenger, and may change. When you book a ride, the app will display the available fare before you confirm your journey.
Typically you’ll have the chance to pay via the payment options you have within the app, such as cash and accepted cashless payment.
My advice: If you are travelling with family or several suitcases, check the size of the vehicles before you book. If you’re someone who may need a little more space, then a slightly larger car could make your ride a lot more comfortable.
Grab is a convenient way for most first timers to get to their accommodation without having to search for a counter for transport.
1. Manila Airport Taxis – A Traditional Way to Travel
Not everyone wants to book a journey through a mobile app. Perhaps your phone battery is running low, you have limited internet access or you simply prefer speaking to someone at the airport.
If so, another possibility is to use an authorised airport taxi service.
There are various taxi options in NAIA, such as coupon taxis and yellow metered taxis. Before selecting one, you should be aware of how they operate.
Coupon taxis
Coupon taxi fares are fixed according to your destination.
Fare is calculated not using a meter, but by an approved destination rate. This way, you can be sure to understand the fare policy before you start your trip. Checking the fixed manila airport taxi price at the official desk beforehand gives you complete peace of mind.
For example, the published NAIA prescribed rate table includes the following sample fares:
| Destination | Coupon taxi fare |
| Intramuros, Manila | ₱530 |
| Ermita, Manila | ₱530 |
| Malate, Manila | ₱440 |
| Binondo, Manila | ₱610 |
| Makati, selected areas | Check the official destination table |
The exact amount depends on your destination within each city. Always check the official rate displayed at the airport counter before accepting the ride.
Yellow metered airport taxis
Yellow taxis used for fares are called metered taxis and they use an approved meter to calculate the fare. The final charge will be based on distance travelled and duration of travel. Understanding the typical manila airport taxi price will help you evaluate if a metered yellow taxi fits your travel budget.
Prior to entering a vehicle ensure it is an authorised airport taxi, the meter is running and request the correct dispatch slip/ receipt.
Avoid relying on any taxi that is standing outside the terminal that is allowed to pick up the passengers. Utilize the appropriate counters and pick-up points at the airport.
What is the Manila airport taxi price?
The fare from NAIA may vary according to the distance. This will vary depending on the services that are required and the area of residence.
Fixed fares are used for coupon taxis, metered fares are based on the fares set by the applicable tariff. Knowing the expected manila airport taxi price allows you to plan your travel budget accurately.
Official NAIA taxi rates can be viewed prior to travel.
Useful reminder: If you are approached for a transport by an individual who hasn’t made an official booking/dispatch arrangement, you should not accept such an offer. When in doubt, seek help from the airport personnel to direct you to the authorized transport area.
2. Airport buses – A cost-effective transport option.
Do you prefer to save on your travel to and from the airport, and spend that money when you’re in the Philippines?
Consider an airport bus to and from the airport.
UBE Express provides point-to-point bus transportation between NAIA and other destinations and transport hubs within Metro Manila and neighboring provinces.
A bus runs on a fixed route and schedule as opposed to a private vehicle. Before purchasing a ticket you should make sure that its available stops correspond to your hotel’s location.
Where can you catch an airport bus?
UBE Express has provided services to transport hubs and destinations from and to NAIA. They can be any of the following areas depending on the current timetable:
- PITX (Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange)
- Victory Liner Pasay.
- Other designated destinations served by its current airport routes.
Please do not assume that a previously advertised route is still running. Service, stops and times are subject to change.
The most up to date information and the ticket can be available from the official website of UBE Express.
How much does an airport bus cost?
Fares are subject to the type of bus and the route. Do not use an old fare list but always confirm the current ticket price before travelling.
If your accommodation is near an operating bus stop, using the bus service may be a good alternative.
Keep in mind though that the bus may not go straight to your hotel. You might have to take a taxi or another mode of transport for the last leg of the journey.
My suggestion: If you have a limited amount of luggage, you’re travelling alone, and you don’t mind sticking to a set itinerary, you may want to consider taking an airport bus. For those with more than one large suitcase or with young children, a private car might be more convenient.
3. Private Manila Airport Transfer – Comfort from the Start
So you enter the arrival hall and get out to meet the driver who is waiting for you with your name on a nameplate. Your luggage is taken care of, and you can head towards your hotel without having to arrange another ride.
That’s the ease of a pre-booked airport pick up.
A private car can be booked via your hotel or a trustworthy transfer company prior to departing from the UK.
This could be beneficial for:
- Families travelling with young children.
- Groups travelling together in one vehicle.
- Travellers with several suitcases.
- First-time visitors who prefer organised pick-up.
- Passengers arriving late at night.
The price will depend on the vehicle size, destination, waiting arrangements and service provider.
When booking check: Total fare, luggage allowance, meeting point, waiting time and cancellation conditions.
A private car can also be a good option if you’re travelling with a group of people, as they can split the expense of renting a car for your trip. Scheduling a seamless manila airport transfer ensures your entire party rides together comfortably.
How Much Does It Cost to Travel from NAIA?
Now that you know the different transport options, let’s bring the costs together.
The total price of your trip will be determined by your destination and the number of people in your group.
Here is a simple comparison to help you plan.
| Transport option | How the fare works | What to remember |
| Grab | Fare shown in the app | Demand and vehicle type affect the price |
| Coupon taxi | Fixed destination rate | Confirm the official fare before departure |
| Yellow airport taxi | Metered fare | Check the meter and dispatch details |
| UBE Express | Route-based ticket | Check the current timetable and fare |
| Private transfer | Pre-arranged quotation | Confirm luggage and waiting arrangements |
For example, if you are travelling to Makati, a Grab ride to One Ayala may cost around ₱200–₱300 according to published planning estimates. If you are taking a taxi to a specific location, there will be a separate fare set for that coupon taxi.
For those who are heading to Intramuros, the published coupon taxi fare is ₱530. A quotation from Grab may vary according to the time of booking and demand. Choosing a pre-booked manila airport transfer gives you a fixed rate ahead of time regardless of demand fluctuations.
The examples demonstrate the value of making a comparison in the airport to choose the best.
Finally, it’s important to keep in mind that a trip may be the most affordable, but not the most convenient one. When you come in after a long international flight with the kids and a few bags, comfort and ease are more important that saving up a little bit.
NAIA to Makati – How Do You Get There?
Makati is one of the most popular places for visitors to stay in Metro Manila. It’s famous for its business district, shopping centres, restaurants, hotels and vibrant city life.
Business and leisure tourists can enjoy the popular places like Ayala Avenue, Greenbelt, Glorietta Village and Legazpi Village.
There are several means to reach your accommodation in Makati.
By Grab: A convenient door to door service. You can check the fare before booking by entering the address of your hotel.
Arrange an authorised taxi to/from the airport at the transport counter. Advise them about the fare/meter before their trip.
Take the bus: Refer to the latest UBE Express route list. Please note that not all parts of Makati have a direct service. Other connection may be needed.
How long does NAIA to Makati take?
Travel time is approximately 30–60 minutes depending on traffic. But journey times can increase due to heavy traffic, rain and busy journey time it can be increased.
If you’re scheduled to travel to a hotel, business meeting, or other appointment, give yourself some extra time.
My recommendation: If you’re in the central area of Makati, and also you’re a new visitor, it is probably easiest to journey straight to your hotel.
How Long Does It Take to Reach Manila City Centre?
The first thing you must know about Manila is that there is no guarantee of smooth traffic.
It may take a long time to reach the destination on the map. This is very evident during the mornings or evenings during peak traffic.
As a general planning guide, you might allow:
| Destination | Approximate journey time |
| Pasay / Mall of Asia | 15–35 minutes |
| Makati | 30–60 minutes |
| Intramuros | 30–60 minutes |
| BGC | 30–60 minutes |
| Quezon City | 45–90 minutes or longer |
These are general times and do not guarantee travel time. The terminal you’re arriving from, destination, road conditions, and the time of day all play a role in your arrival.
In Manila patience is important. Don’t forget to plan for a decent amount of time to arrive at your hotel, freshen up, and spend some time exploring the city. Knowing how to get from manila airport to city destinations with buffer time will help ease your travel stress.
Useful Tips Before Leaving Manila Airport
A little preparation can make your arrival a lot easier. The following are some helpful tips to keep in mind before you begin.
1. Check your arrival terminal – NAIA has four passenger terminals. Check on your airline’s website before travelling, as assignments are subject to change.
2. Arrange mobile data – Having an internet connection makes it easier to book Grab, check directions and communicate with your driver.
3. Carry some Philippine pesos – Keep a little cash for small expenses and transport services that accept cash payments.
4. Check your luggage allowance – Make sure your chosen vehicle has enough room for everyone and their suitcases.
5. Take official airport direction – Use only official transport counters and pick-up areas, not unofficial ones.
6. Save Hotel Address – Save the full address on your phone, in case you need to give it to the driver.
7. Allow extra time for traffic – Avoid making tight plans immediately after landing, especially if you are travelling during busy periods.
8. Keep your belongings close – As in any busy airport, look after your passport, phone, wallet and luggage while arranging transport.
9. Review the payment option – Ensure that you know if your service accepts cash, cards or in-app payment.
10. Confirm your destination – Manila City and Metro Manila cover different areas. Make sure you know exactly where your hotel is before deciding on the bus route or car drive.
Get ready for your trip to the Philippines with confidence!
Your first journey after arriving in the Philippines doesn’t need to be entangled. Depending on the budget and travel style, person may opt for Grab service, airport taxi service, bus or pre-booked private car. Understanding your routes from naia to manila city hubs helps ensure a smooth departure from the terminal.
If you want convenience, then Grab might be a comfortable option. If you like hiring a taxi personally, make sure you take an authorised taxi service at the airport. And when your destination is near an existing bus stop, UBE Express could save you on your trip.
Mostly important is to know your destination, consult current fares and allow for adequate time for Manila traffic. After arriving at your hotel rest and relax a bit. Maybe the next place you will go is to the historic streets of Intramuros, the vibrant stores of Makati or a mouthwatering Filipino meal you’ve been waiting to taste.
The wonders to discover abound: the capital’s history and culture, the island’s beauty and its coastline.
To get more useful travel tips, refer to our Guide to Manila Airport (NAIA) Guide to Manila Airport Terminals, Grab in the Philippines Guide and Guide to Public Transport in the Philippines.
So when you’re ready to venture out of the capital, refer to our day trip suggestions from Manila for another beautiful experience with world pinoy flights.
My dear travellers! Mabuhay! You’ve just entered the start of your adventure in the Philippines.
FAQ
1. Is there a train from Manila Airport to the city centre?
No, there are no MRT or LRT train stations at NAIA airport. Transportation is only available on foot by Grab, taxi, bus or private car.
2. Which transport option is best for first-time visitors?
Grab is usually best because you can book it easily via an app, see the fixed fare upfront, and avoid negotiating prices.
3. What is the difference between a coupon taxi and a yellow taxi?
Coupon taxis charge an (affordable) fixed price depending on the area where you’re going, whereas yellow taxis charge a running price according to distance and duration of the trip.
4. How long does it take to travel from the airport to Makati or Intramuros?
It typically takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on traffic conditions, rush hour and rainfall.
5. Is the UBE Express bus suitable if I have a lot of luggage?
No, for solo travellers, low weight luggage. Several large bags or young children, a Grab or private transfer is much more convenient.
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DESTINATIONS
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