Getting Around Philippines Without Car Transport
Exploring getting around without car transport in the Philippines. Practical tips, personal insights, and expert advice for expats.
Community article, editorially reviewed. Opinions are the author's, not ArchipelagoExpat's.
City transport
Jeepneys: ₱12-15 per ride. Flag the moving jeepney, say your destination. Exact change appreciated. Tricycles: ₱15-50 depending on distance. Negotiate before getting in. Within city: ₱15-20. Grab/Taxi: Metered taxis available in major cities. Grab app for door-to-door.
Long-distance buses
- Ceres Liner: The main bus company for Visayas. Cebu to Dumaguete: ₱350, 4 hours.
- Genesis/Victory Liner: Luzon routes. Manila to Baguio: ₱500, 5 hours.
Island ferries
- OceanJet: Fast craft between Visayan islands. Cebu-Bohol: ₱800 (1.5 hours)
- 2GO Travel: Manila to Visayas routes. Manila-Cebu: ₱1,200 (overnight)
- Montenegro Lines: Budget option. Slower but reliable.
Domestic flights
- Cebu Pacific: Budget carrier. Book 2-3 months ahead for ₱1,000-2,000 fares
- Philippine Airlines: More reliable but pricier
- AirAsia: Good for Manila-Cebu route
Tips
- Always carry small bills (₱20, ₱50) for jeepneys
- Book ferries online at 2goexpress.com.ph
- Domestic flights: book early for cheapest fares
- Night buses save on hotel nights but are less comfortable
Archipelago Team
TrustedThe Archipelago Expat editorial team.
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