20/08/2024
Getting from Ninoy Aquino Airport to Manila City Centre
Upon arriving at Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), after a long flight and potentially battling jet lag, your primary concern is likely reaching your hotel in the city centre as swiftly and smoothly as possible. You might have heard tales of Manila's notorious traffic or encountered less-than-reputable taxi drivers. However, by following this guide, you can navigate these potential challenges with ease.
It's important to note that there isn't a direct railway service from the airport to the city centre, unlike some other major international hubs. This means no dedicated Airport Link or metro stations within a short walk of the arrival halls. Your primary options are taxis and buses.
Manila Airport Taxi Options
As you exit the arrival hall of Terminal 1 or 3 (where most international flights land and depart), you'll find the taxi stands clearly marked. You'll encounter two main types of taxis:
Yellow Taxis
These are the official, registered, and certified airport taxis. They are generally considered the safest and most reliable option for your journey into downtown Manila. Like white taxis, they operate on a meter, but their starting fare is higher at 70 Pesos, with subsequent increments of 4 Pesos. This is in contrast to the white taxis, which start at 40 Pesos and increase by 3.5 Pesos every 300 meters. While yellow taxis may cost you an additional 50-60 Pesos compared to white taxis, this surcharge is often considered well worth the peace of mind. This is similar to the service charge found at airports like Suvarnabhumi in Bangkok.
A typical journey to areas like P. Burgos Street in Makati or Malate will cost between 160-200 Pesos, depending heavily on traffic conditions. The travel time can range from 30 minutes to an hour. To minimise your exposure to heavy traffic, try to schedule your arrival before 4 pm, which could reduce your travel time to around 30 minutes.
To use a yellow taxi, simply join the queue at the designated stand. You'll find plenty of vehicles available at any time, so waiting times are usually no more than 5 minutes.
White Taxis
Positioned behind the yellow taxis, the white taxis are slightly cheaper. However, a common issue is that many drivers may refuse to use the meter, opting instead for a fixed price. Some may not state a price upfront and then present an exorbitant fare upon arrival. It is crucial to insist on the meter being turned on. If the driver is unwilling, it's best to try the next taxi. While the cost savings might seem appealing, the potential hassle and the risk of being overcharged or scammed often outweigh the benefits. Furthermore, drivers in yellow taxis are often found to be more polite and less likely to try selling you tours or other services during your ride.
The travel time for white taxis is the same as for yellow taxis, typically 30-60 minutes to Makati, Ermita, or Malate, with traffic being the biggest variable, especially during peak rush hour (6 pm to 8 pm).
Taxis at the Departure Hall
Some travellers suggest avoiding the arrival hall taxis altogether and heading up to the departure hall to catch taxis used by departing passengers. While this might seem like a way to avoid queues or potentially find a metered ride, my personal experience and observations suggest this is not a reliable strategy. I've encountered security personnel stating it's "not allowed," and even witnessed instances where drivers were reluctant to use the meter, leading to disputes. For a smoother experience, it's advisable to stick to the official taxi stands in the arrival hall and opt for the yellow taxis.
Key Takeaway: For a stress-free transfer, the yellow taxis are highly recommended, even with the slight extra cost.
Manila Airport Bus
An alternative to taxis is the airport bus service, located next to the yellow taxi queue outside the arrival hall. The fare is 150 Pesos, and buses serve various downtown locations such as Greenbelt in Makati and Robinson's in Malate. Departures are scheduled every 30 minutes. The airport staff are usually very helpful in directing you to the correct bus. However, compared to the yellow taxis, the benefit is minimal. For just 20-30 Pesos more, a taxi will take you directly to your hotel, whereas the bus will drop you on a main street, requiring you to walk the remaining distance with your luggage.
Jeepneys: The Traditional Filipino Experience
For a truly authentic Filipino travel experience, you could consider a jeepney. However, they are not permitted inside the airport grounds. You would need to walk to the main street and seek assistance from locals to identify the correct jeepney line. This option is significantly more time-consuming and stressful, especially if you have luggage. While very cheap (around 8-12 Pesos per trip), it is not recommended for airport transfers.
Getting from Downtown Manila back to the Airport
When it's time to head back to the airport, most hotels offer a "car service." Be aware that these services can be more expensive than hailing a taxi yourself. I was quoted 350 Pesos at one hotel, only to find a taxi on the street for much less. You can ask hotel staff to call a taxi for you, but ensure they specifically request a metered taxi. Even then, some drivers might still try to negotiate a fixed fare. To be safe, it's often best to walk a short distance from your hotel and hail a taxi yourself, ensuring the meter is used.
Crucially, allow ample time for your journey. Aim to leave your hotel at least 3 hours before your flight departure. Travel times from downtown hotels to the airport typically range from 45 minutes to 1 hour. This buffer accounts for potential traffic delays, giving you sufficient time for airport procedures like check-in, security, and immigration, plus a moment to grab a coffee or souvenir.
Summary of Transfer Options
| Transport Type | Estimated Fare (Pesos) | Estimated Travel Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yellow Taxi | 160-200 | 30-60 mins | Official, safe, metered, reliable | Slightly more expensive than white taxis |
| White Taxi | 120-170 | 30-60 mins | Cheaper starting fare | Risk of meter refusal, potential scams, less polite drivers |
| Airport Bus | 150 | 45-75 mins | Cheaper than yellow taxi | Does not drop at hotel, less convenient with luggage |
| Jeepney | 8-12 (per leg) | 60+ mins (with transfers) | Very cheap, authentic experience | Inconvenient with luggage, requires local knowledge, time-consuming |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Are there any trains from Manila Airport to the city centre?
No, there is currently no direct railway service connecting Ninoy Aquino International Airport to the city centre.
Q2: Which is the safest taxi option?
Yellow taxis are generally considered the safest and most reliable option due to their official status and adherence to metered fares.
Q3: What should I do if a taxi driver refuses to use the meter?
If a driver refuses to use the meter, politely decline the ride and look for the next available taxi. There are usually plenty of options.
Q4: How much should I expect to pay for a taxi to Makati?
Expect to pay between 160-200 Pesos for a taxi to Makati, depending on traffic conditions and the specific location within Makati.
Q5: Is it better to take a taxi or a bus from the airport?
While the bus is an option, a yellow taxi offers greater convenience by dropping you directly at your hotel, making it the preferred choice for most travellers, especially those with luggage.
Q6: How early should I leave my hotel to go to the airport?It is advisable to leave your hotel at least 3 hours before your flight departure time to account for potential traffic delays and airport procedures.
Location of Airport and Key Tourist Areas
Ninoy Aquino International Airport is located approximately 10-13 km from the city centre. The travel time is significantly impacted by traffic. Popular tourist areas with nightlife, including Makati (P. Burgos Street), Ermita, and Malate, are accessible from the airport.
Understanding these options will help you make an informed decision and ensure a smooth start to your Manila adventure.
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