Arriving in Manila for the first time can feel a bit busy, but getting from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to the city is actually simple once you know your options. Whether you are going to Makati, Pasay, or Manila City, there are several ways to reach your destination, such as airport taxis, Grab rides, or city buses. Even during peak hours, traveling is manageable if you plan ahead and know which terminal you will arrive at.
🛬 How to Get from Manila Airport to the City
Arriving in Manila for the first time can feel a bit overwhelming, but getting to the city is quite easy once you know your options. Whether you are going to Makati, Pasay, or Manila City, there are several ways to reach your hotel from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Here’s a quick guide for Filipino travelers to help you choose the best option based on your budget, time, and comfort.
✈️ From Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to the City
Transport Option | Where to Find It | Travel Time | Cost (PHP) | Convenience | Best For | Extra Info |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Grab (Ride-hailing app) | Book through Grab app (choose airport pickup area) | 25–50 mins | ₱300–₱600 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Most travelers | Prices may change depending on traffic and demand |
Airport Taxi (Yellow Taxi) | Taxi stand at arrivals area | 25–50 mins | ₱400–₱700 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Families, first-timers | Official airport taxis have meters and are safer than outside offers |
Regular Taxi (White Taxi) | Outside airport area (near exits) | 25–50 mins | ₱250–₱500 | ⭐⭐⭐ | Budget travelers | Make sure the driver uses the meter before leaving |
Airport Bus (Ube Express) | Pick-up points at Terminals 1–3 | 40–70 mins | ₱150–₱200 | ⭐⭐⭐ | Travelers with light luggage | Routes go to Makati, Pasay, and Manila |
Private Transfer | Pre-book online (Trip.com) | 25–50 mins | From ₱1,000 (2–3 pax) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Comfort, group travel | Driver will wait for you at arrivals holding a sign with your name |
Car Rental | Counters at arrivals area | Flexible | From ₱2,000+ per day | ⭐⭐⭐ |
🚌 Airport Bus (Ube Express)
If you want an affordable and simple way to reach the city from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), the airport bus is a good option. It’s clean, air-conditioned, and convenient for travelers with luggage. The routes go directly to major areas in Manila, Makati, and Pasay without the need for transfers.
🚍 Where to Find the Bus
- After collecting your luggage, head to the Arrival Hall area.
- Follow the signs that say “Ube Express / Airport Bus.”
- You can buy your ticket at the small counter near the boarding area or pay directly on the bus.
- Buses are parked at the official Ube Express terminals outside each arrival area.
📍 Main Routes and Destinations
Route | Approx. Fare | Drop-off Points | Why Choose It |
|---|---|---|---|
NAIA → Makati | ₱150–₱200 | Ayala Center, Greenbelt, Glorietta | Best for travelers staying near malls or hotels in Makati |
NAIA → Manila | ₱150–₱200 | Robinsons Place, Luneta, Ermita | Good for those heading to central Manila or near Intramuros |
NAIA → Pasay | ₱150–₱200 | SM Mall of Asia, Pasay Rotonda | Convenient if your hotel is near the bay area or you need to catch a bus south |
NAIA → Parañaque | ₱150–₱200 | PITX (Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange) | Ideal for those taking provincial buses or long rides outside Metro Manila |
⏱️ Travel Time
- Usually 40–70 minutes, depending on the route and traffic.
- Buses depart every 30–45 minutes from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
💳 How to Ride the Airport Bus
- Go to the ticket counter or ask the staff for help with your destination.
- Pay by cash, card, or GCash (depending on the route).
- Keep your ticket with you until you reach your stop.
- Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride to the city.
🚖 Airport Taxi (Yellow Taxi)
📍 Where to Find It
- Located right outside the arrival areas of all NAIA terminals
- Follow the signs marked “Airport Taxi” after leaving the baggage claim
- Airport staff are available to help you queue and issue a fare receipt before departure
💸 Fares and Travel Time
- To Makati or Pasay: around ₱400–₱700
- To Manila City: around ₱350–₱600
- Travel time: 25–50 minutes, depending on traffic
✅ Why Choose an Airport Taxi
- Official and metered taxis managed by the airport authority
- Safe and direct ride to your destination
- Ideal for first-time travelers and families
- No need for online booking or an app
✨ Traveler Tip
- Always make sure the driver uses the meter before leaving
- Avoid unregistered drivers or private offers inside the terminal to prevent scams
🚗 Regular Taxi (White Taxi)
📍 Where to Find It
- Located outside the airport area, usually a short walk from the arrival exit
- Follow the signs or ask airport security for directions to the regular taxi bay
- These taxis are not airport-managed but still operate with meters
💸 Fares and Travel Time
- To Makati or Pasay: around ₱250–₱500
- To Manila City: around ₱200–₱400
- Travel time: 25–50 minutes, depending on traffic
✅ Why Choose a Regular Taxi
- Cheaper than yellow airport taxis
- Metered fare, so you only pay for the actual distance
- Good choice for budget travelers familiar with Manila
✨ Traveler Tip
- Make sure the driver uses the meter before leaving the airport area
- Avoid fixed-rate offers and confirm your route through a navigation app like Google Maps for safety
📱 Grab (Ride-Hailing App)
🚗 How to Book
- Download the Grab app on your phone (available on iOS and Android).
- Set your pickup point at your arrival terminal and enter your hotel or destination in the app.
- You can pay using cash, GCash, or a credit or debit card linked to your account.
💸 Fares and Travel Time
- Fares are usually around ₱300–₱600 to Makati, Pasay, or Manila City.
- Travel time is about 25–50 minutes, depending on traffic and weather.
✅ Why Choose Grab
- No need to line up at the taxi stand.
- You can see the estimated fare before confirming your ride.
- Choose a car type based on your comfort and group size:
- GrabCar Economy: Best for solo travelers or couples.
- GrabCar Premium: Spacious and comfortable for families or small groups.
✨ Traveler Tip
- Grab is the best choice if you prefer a cashless, app-based ride with fixed pricing.
- If you’re carrying a lot of luggage or arriving late at night, book GrabCar Premium for extra comfort and space.
🚘 Private Transfer
If you want a relaxing and worry-free way to start your stay in Manila, booking a private transfer is the most convenient option. You can arrange it before your flight, and once you arrive, your driver will be waiting at the arrival area to take you straight to your hotel. It’s a great choice if you’re arriving late at night, traveling with family, or carrying a lot of luggage.
🚗 Where to Book
- Book online through trusted platforms like Trip.com before your flight.
- Your driver will meet you at the arrival area, holding a sign with your name.
- You can choose from a sedan, SUV, or van depending on the number of passengers.
💸 Fares and Travel Time
- To Makati or Pasay: from ₱1,000+ (2–3 passengers)
- To Manila City: from ₱1,200+
- Travel time: 25–50 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Premium vehicles are available for groups, families, or business travelers.
✅ Why Choose a Private Transfer
- Fixed price with no hidden charges.
- Direct drop-off at your hotel with luggage assistance.
- Safe and comfortable, especially after a long flight.
- Best option for those who want a smooth and easy arrival experience.
🚘 Car Rental
If you want the freedom to explore Metro Manila and nearby destinations without depending on taxis or public transport, renting a car from the airport is a great choice. It allows you to travel comfortably at your own schedule and visit places whenever you like. This option is perfect for families, business travelers, or anyone planning day trips around the city.
🚗 Where to Rent a Car
- Car rental counters are located at the Arrival Area of all NAIA terminals
- Major companies such as Avis, Hertz, and Europcar operate at the airport
- You can also book online in advance through trusted sites like Trip.com for better rates and availability
💸 Rates and Travel Time
- Daily rental starts from around ₱2,000 to ₱3,500, depending on the car type
- Travel time to central Manila, Makati, or Pasay is around 25 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic
✅ Why Choose Car Rental
- Gives you full flexibility to explore Manila and nearby cities like Tagaytay or Batangas
- Comfortable and private, suitable for families or small groups
- Ideal for long stays or travelers who prefer to drive themselves
✈️ What’s the Best Way from Manila Airport to the City?
Just landed in Manila and wondering how to get to the city? Don’t worry, kabayan! Whether you’re on a tight budget, traveling with family, or arriving late at night, there’s always a convenient way to reach your destination from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). Here’s a quick guide to help you find the best option for your travel style:
| Travel Style | Best Option | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
Budget Traveler | 🚌 Airport Bus (Ube Express) or 🚗 Regular Taxi (White Taxi) | The bus is affordable and air-conditioned, while white taxis are metered and easy to find. |
First-Time Visitor | 🚖 Airport Taxi (Yellow Taxi) or 📱 Grab Ride | Safe, official, and convenient for travelers unfamiliar with the city. |
Group or Family | 🚘 Private Transfer (Trip.com) | Comfortable, direct, and spacious for luggage and children. |
Late-Night Arrival | 🚖 Airport Taxi or 🚘 Private Transfer | Reliable and safe when buses are no longer operating. |
Comfort Seeker | 🚘 Private Transfer (Trip.com) | Fixed price, driver waiting at arrivals, and door-to-door service. |
No matter if you’re heading to Makati, Pasay, or Manila City, getting from NAIA to the city is easy and safe. Just pick the option that suits your comfort, time, and budget.
Enjoy your stay, kabayan! Welcome to Manila, the heart of the Philippines! 🌇✨
🙋♀️ FAQs: Manila Airport to City
How far is Manila Airport (NAIA) from the city center?
NAIA is about 7–10 kilometers from central Manila and Makati. Depending on traffic, it usually takes 25–50 minutes to reach your destination.What is the cheapest way to get from Manila Airport to the city?
The Ube Express airport bus is the most affordable option, with fares from ₱150–₱200. It goes directly to major areas like Makati, Manila, and Pasay.Are airport taxis safe?
Yes. The yellow airport taxis are managed by the airport authority and are generally safe. Always take taxis from the official taxi stands and ask for a metered ride.Can I take public transportation from the airport?
Yes. Besides the airport bus, there are city buses and jeepneys outside the terminals, but they are less convenient if you have luggage or are new to Manila.What is the best option if I arrive late at night?
If you land after midnight, the best options are a yellow airport taxi, Grab car, or a private transfer, since buses may no longer be running.Can I pay taxi or Grab fares with a card?
Most Grab rides accept card or GCash payments. Taxis usually accept cash only, so it’s best to have small bills ready.How long does it take to get to popular areas?
- To Makati: 25–40 minutes
- To Pasay: 15–25 minutes
- To Manila City: 30–45 minutes
- To Quezon City: 45–60 minutes (depending on traffic)