Manila Public Transportation Guide: The Ultimate Guide for Travelers Transiting Through Ninoy Aquino International Airport
Discover how to efficiently and cost-effectively explore the city using Manila’s public transportation system, including MRT, LRT, buses, and jeepneys, and make the most of your stay in Manila.
Introduction
You might find yourself at Manila’s airport with a few hours to spare between flights, wondering how to spend your time. Manila, known for its vibrancy and diversity, offers a perfect opportunity to experience its rich culture, even in a short amount of time. However, navigating an unfamiliar city can seem daunting. This article provides a straightforward guide on how to explore the city during your transit using Manila’s public transportation system.
If you have time during your transit but want to rest before your next flight, and sightseeing doesn’t really appeal to you right now, then a day-use hotel with flexible hours is highly recommended! Here’s a list of day-use hotels you can use in Manila and a plan to make the most of them.
Exploring Manila Using
Public Transportation The key to efficiently exploring Manila is understanding its extensive public transportation system.
The Metro Rail Transit (MRT) system and the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system
The Metro Rail Transit (MRT) system and the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system are at the heart of Manila’s public transportation. These elevated train systems quickly connect major parts of the city and are highly efficient for travelers.
The Metro Rail Transit (MRT) system, especially the MRT-3 line, runs along Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (EDSA), Manila’s main transportation artery. This line connects many of Manila’s key commercial districts and shopping areas, from Quezon City in the north to Pasay City in the south. MRT-3 provides access to major shopping malls, business hubs, and tourist spots, making it convenient for travel to densely packed areas like Ortigas and Makati.
Meanwhile, the Light Rail Transit (LRT) system comprises two main lines, LRT-1 and LRT-2. The LRT-1 line extends from the southern end of Pasay City northward, passing areas close to the historic Intramuros district and cultural landmarks along Roxas Boulevard. This line facilitates easy access to the beautiful Manila Bay and other key tourist spots in the city.
The LRT-2 line connects the east and west of Manila, primarily serving students and daily commuters. It stretches from Recto Avenue in the west to near Marikina City and Antipolo City at Santolan in the east. LRT-2 is notable for its access to cultural and educational facilities, particularly valuable for students due to its proximity to institutions like Ateneo de Manila University and the University of Manila.
By utilizing these systems, you can efficiently explore a broad area of Manila and experience the city’s diverse cultural and historical attractions. Peak hours in Manila, particularly during weekdays from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, see roads extremely congested with people commuting to work or school. Avoiding these times can make your travels more comfortable, but it’s important to plan ahead and move early to be prepared for congestion at any time.
Buses and jeepneys offer a more local flavor of transportation. They cover every corner of Manila, and with some change in hand, they can help you explore various regions of the city. Jeepneys, in particular, provide a unique cultural experience and allow you to see the diverse faces of the city at a low cost.
Bus
Manila’s buses run on major roads, providing reliable access to a wide range of destinations across the city. There are generally two types of buses: air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned, with the former being slightly more expensive but offering comfort in Manila’s hot climate.
Features: Buses offer regular service and cover a broad range of routes. Many buses travel along major roads like Epifanio de los Santos Avenue, providing access to the city’s commercial districts, shopping centers, and office buildings.
Average fare: Bus fares vary depending on distance but generally range from 15 to 50 pesos (about $0.28 to $0.93, rates may vary), depending on the distance traveled and whether the bus is air-conditioned.
Jeepney
Jeepneys are an icon of Philippine public transportation, known for their colorful decorations and unique designs. These vehicles, modified from jeeps left over from World War II, have their own charm and are widely seen throughout Manila.
Features: Jeepneys are nimble and have routes that cover more detailed areas. They have fixed routes displayed on the vehicle’s sides, and passengers can board by signaling the driver and disembark by saying “Para” when nearing their destination.
Average fare: Jeepney fares are very affordable, starting at 9 pesos (about $0.17), and increase depending on the distance traveled. Most city trips can be made for under 20 pesos (about $0.37).
Riding Tips
Prepare small change
When using buses or jeepneys, having small change ready for the fare makes things smoother. Drivers often don’t have change, so having the exact fare is convenient.
Check the route
Especially when traveling by jeepney, it’s important to check the route in advance. Choosing the route closest to your destination can save travel time. Using buses and jeepneys allows you to explore various areas of Manila efficiently and economically while experiencing local culture. These modes of transportation provide an opportunity to experience the rhythm of life in Manila and get closer to the lives of the local people.
Supplementary
To smoothly use public transportation in Manila, several points should be kept in mind. Avoid peak hours, prepare small change, and use the Beep card whenever possible for a stress-free and efficient journey. Additionally, Manila’s people are very friendly, so don’t hesitate to ask locals for directions when in doubt.
Beep card
The Beep card is a convenient contactless payment system widely used in the Philippines’ public transportation. It can be used on Manila’s Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) systems and is accepted on buses and some retail outlets. Using the Beep card eliminates the need to queue for ticket purchases and to have small change ready for fares.
Beep card features:
Contactless payment: The Beep card operates on a touch-and-go basis, allowing fares to be paid by simply tapping the card against a reader. This makes entry and exit quicker and public transportation use more streamlined.
Rechargeable: The Beep card is prepaid, and users can add credits to the card. Recharging can be done at MRT and LRT stations, designated convenience stores, and other partner outlets.
Versatility: While primarily intended for MRT and LRT use, the Beep card can also be used for payments on Manila’s public bus system, toll roads, and even at some retail stores and services.
Durability: Being a physical card, it can be used without relying on smartphones or other devices, free from worries about batteries or internet connections.
The introduction of the Beep card has significantly enhanced convenience for those using Manila’s public transportation system, especially frequent users of MRT and LRT. The card saves time and effort for travelers and commuters and reduces stress when planning movements, providing a more comfortable and efficient travel experience.
Where to buy the Beep card
Beep cards can be purchased at the following locations:
MRT and LRT stations: Beep cards can be bought at ticket booths at most MRT and LRT stations, where you can also recharge the card balance.
Convenience stores: Some convenience stores and retail outlets sell Beep cards, where you can also top up the card balance.
Vending machines: MRT and LRT stations have vending machines that sell Beep cards, available 24/7 for card purchases and balance recharges.
When purchasing a Beep card, a certain amount (please check the latest fees on the official website or at the purchase location) is required for the card itself. You can then decide how much to load onto the card. The card balance will decrease according to the fares of the public transportation used, but you can recharge it anytime at station ticket booths, vending machines, or participating retail stores.
Conclusion
Transiting through Manila provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy this vibrant city, even for a short time. By using the public transportation system, you can manage your time and costs efficiently while experiencing the charms of Manila. Incorporating a short rest at a day-use hotel allows for refreshment before heading to your next destination. Leverage Manila’s public transportation to explore this diverse city!
For day-use hotels in Manila, visit here: https://daydreamhub.com/city/manila/
If you have time during your transit but want to rest before your next flight, and sightseeing doesn’t really appeal to you right now, then a day-use hotel with flexible hours is highly recommended! Here’s a list of day-use hotels you can use in Manila and a plan to make the most of them.