Transportation in Manila
Metro Manila is a monster of a metropolis; a conurbation of 12 cities. Explore its districts – each has a very distinct style. Manila wraps herself around a sweeping bay across the delta of the Pasig river and most attractions cluster around Spanish colonial Intramuros in the very heart of the city. The public transport network makes getting around overground easy, although the streets are constantly traffic snarled.Beyond the walls ofIntramuros, a thriving modern city is emerging; close by Roxas Boulevard and Malate jump with life at night while the futuristic towers of Makati are Manila’s burgeoning financial, shopping and dining hub.
Read more about transport from and to the airport
Train
Much the easiest way of getting around, Manila has three overland rail lines: LRT1 (yellow) runs from Niyog in the south to Monumento in the north, bringing passengers in from the airport and passing tourist sights. LRT2 (purple) runs east to west and MRT3 runs along the vast thoroughfare of EDSA.
Taxi
Taxis are available at ranks in the airport and outside major hotels. Otherwise hail them in the street and fix a rough fare to your destination before you set off – even if the taxi is metered. Air-conditioned mega-taxis hold up to ten passengers, who jump on and off at will. Traffic jams make for slow progress.
Bus
Air-conditioned buses run from the airport to the business district of Makati and along EDSA, but length of journey depends on the traffic. In the city, some bus routes are serviced by Metro Manila Transport while a dozen privately owned companies cover other areas and across Luzon.
Foot
The best way to see the tourist attractions of Manila is on foot. Intramuros and Rizal Park are pedestrianised, and there are large swathes of mall in Malate and Makati.
Car
Getting behind the wheel in Manila requires nerves of steel; jams are notorious and drivers are aggressive. To cut pollution and congestion, cars with certain number plates are banned from entering the city on specific days.
Rent your car
Manila is renowned for traffic, and peak-time delays are the norm. The city has an extensive network of major roads connecting with other cities in Metro Manila and the Philippines. Parking spaces are hard to find so you’re better opting for a hotel with a car park onsite.
Transportation Tips
Several more lines on the elevated railway have been proposed, stretching across the city from Santa Cruz in Manila to Quezon City. Last journeys on the trains are at midnight. Daily tickets either cover four stops in either direction or a longer single journey. Stored-value and multiple-ride tickets are available at all stations and are valid for up to six months.
Light Rail Transit Authority Website Metro Rail Transit Website
Special Transportation
Jeepney
The transport of choice for locals, jeepneys are the colourful elongated jeeps that crowd the streets. Check where they are headed from the destination board on the side or front and hail them like a taxi. They are cheap but crowded.
Calesa
A trip round Chinatown in an decorative horse-drawn calesa is a great way to see the sights – agree a price before you set off.
