How to get from La Union to Manila
Why visit Manila?
Manila is the capital of the Philippines — an old city often disregarded by travellers who use it only as a gateway to the country’s more visually appealing islands. But if you have an extra day in your itinerary, we think Manila’s colourful history is a great way to kick off your trip.
Explore the walled city of Intramuros, Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church — all of which were first built in the late 1500s. Art and anthropology also attract many locals to Manila. You will find here the National Museum, a complex of three museum buildings that tell the story of the Filipinos.
What are the 2 ways to travel from La Union to Manila?
There are 2 ways to travel the 265 kilometre (165 miles) distance from La Union to Manila. You can choose between the bus and private transport. The journey takes 5 hours to 7 hours 25 minutes and the quickest way is by private transport. If you're on a budget, the cheapest option is by bus with tickets starting at 555 PHP ($9.20).
Where to stay in Manila?
Still looking for accommodation? Don't forget to check out our favourite places to stay in Manila at the bottom of this page.
La Union to Manila by Bus
There are three bus operators for the La Union to Manila route: Maria De Leon Transportation, Viron Transit and Partas Transportation Company.
Partas has several trips daily. You can book online with BookAway to reserve your tickets. If you prefer Viron Transit or Maria De Leon Transportation, you may contact them through their Facebook pages for more details on booking and reservations.
If you’re travelling on a weekend or in a busy season, it’s best to book your tickets online at least a week before. This way, you’ll have a better chance of securing a seat back to Metro Manila.
Ticket prices start from 555 PHP ($9.20) for a journey that takes around 6 hours to 7 hours 25 minutes.
Departure stations
You can catch a Partas bus from their stations in San Juan and San Fernando. Maria De Leon buses depart from Bataan Transit Bus Terminal, while Viron Transit buses leave from Viron Transit Terminal in San Fernando.
San Fernando is a 10-minute jeepney or tricycle ride from San Juan. Fares start from 13 PHP ($0.20) for the jeepney and 200 PHP ($3.30) for a “special” tricycle ride.
These companies also have buses originating from Ilocos passing through La Union National Highway. You can try waiting for a bus along the main road, but note that seats are not guaranteed.
Bus schedule from La Union to Manila
Arrival stations
Buses park at different stations in Metro Manila depending on the bus company.
- Partas buses head to their terminals in Pasay City (5 km from Makati) and Cubao, Quezon City (11 km from Makati).
- Maria De Leon buses park at Avenida (10 km from Makati).
- Viron buses stop at either EDSA Cubao, Quezon City (12 km from Makati) or Dapitan (10 km from Makati).
Makati is the most popular area in Metro Manila. It’s easy to book a Grab or take a taxi from any bus station to Makati or anywhere you want to be in Manila. Fares start from 250 PHP ($4.20).
La Union to Manila by Private Transport
A private transfer from La Union to Manila is the most convenient option. The journey takes about 5 hours, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers.
Several companies offer private transfers from any province in Luzon to Manila. Ask your hotel for referrals or browse Facebook groups for recommendations from La Union to Manila. Prices start at around 6,000 PHP ($100) for a 4-seater sedan. If you’re in a bigger group, an 8-seater van usually goes for about 10,000 PHP ($165).
Another option is to book your private transfer on BookAway — more expensive, but saves you the hassle of looking everywhere for a driver you can trust. Plus, BookAway has a responsive customer service in the off chance that you have any complaints about your ride.
Prices for private transfer on BookAway start at 17,000 PHP ($280) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 5,600 PHP ($93) each.
Private Transport options from La Union to Manila
Best places to stay in Manila
Manila is a bustling metropolitan city that can be slightly overwhelming at first. Not just because of the busy streets and towering skyscrapers, but also because of the number of hotels to pick from. There are a lot!
No matter your price range, we’ve found some great places to stay in the best locations so you don’t have to do that research.
Before you start reading about our favourite stays, it’s good to know a bit about the best areas to stay in Manila. That way, you’re picking the best accommodation in the area that’s right for you.
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- Makati is our favourite area to stay in Manila, and where most of our favourite stays are. It’s one of the most upscale areas in Manila and is known for its shopping malls, restaurants, and nightlife.
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- Bonifacio Global City (BGC) is a newer development in Manila and is known for its modern architecture, restaurants and shopping centres.
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- Malate is a lively area known for its bars, nightclubs and restaurants. It’s also close to several tourist attractions, such as Rizal Park and Intramuros.
Somerset Central Salcedo Makati - Treating Yourself
Area: Makati City centre — approx. 10-minute walk to shopping malls and business centre
As soon as you step into Somerset Central, you forget about the hustle and bustle going on outside the doors. Inside the hotel you’re met with luxury, relaxation and a chance to rejuvenate yourself in the gym or outdoor pool.
The grandeur of the hotel continues in the rooms, decorated in a stylish and modern design. The highlight of the room are the beds. They’re huge and super comfortable, guaranteeing you a great night’s sleep.
- Outdoor swimming pool
- Gym
- A la carte restaurant
- Continental breakfast included
Double rooms start from $50 per night
Hotel 101 Manila - Mid Range
Area: Along Mall of Asia complex — approx. 10-minute drive to shopping malls and airport
Hotel 101 Manila has everything you could ask for from a city hotel. It has a refreshing outdoor pool, a delicious on-site restaurant and it’s close to the airport — perfect if you’re flying in or out of Manila.
The rooms are large, comfortable and exceptionally clean. With their incredible hospitality, the staff make you feel like you’re staying in a 5-star hotel.
- Outdoor swimming pool
- On-site restaurant
- Amazing staff
- Great and convenient location
Double rooms cost $30-$50 per night
Hop Inn Hotel Makati Avenue - Budget Friendly
Area: Makati City centre — approx. 5-minute drive to nearest shopping mall
Only passing through Manila? Hop Inn Hotel is perfect for those spending just a few nights in the busy city. It’s clean, modern and has all of the basic amenities that you could possibly need.
Modern minimalism would be a good way to describe this place. Plus you won’t be spending too much time in your room as you’re located in Makati, one of the best neighbourhoods in Manila.
- Clean and modern rooms
- Great location
- Air conditioning
- Helpful staff
Double rooms cost $15-$30 per night
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from La Union to Manila. If there's anything else you're wondering about, drop us a comment and we'll do our best to answer you within a few days.
PS: If you've recently travelled this route, share your experience with fellow travellers and help us improve this post. Thanks for helping out our travel community!
Frequently Asked Questions about La Union to Manila
What is the distance from La Union to Manila?
The distance from La Union to Manila is 265 kilometre (165 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from La Union to Manila?
The fastest way to get from La Union to Manila is by private transport and takes 5 hours.
What is the cheapest way to get from La Union to Manila?
The cheapest way to get from La Union to Manila is by bus with ticket costs starting from 555 PHP ($9.20).
Abby is a writer who finds joy in mountains, beaches, and road trips. She considers her solo backpacking trip to the rice terraces of Bontoc one of the most fulfilling moments in her life. She’s loyal to the islands of her home country, the Philippines, but Thailand’s beaches also have a special place in her heart.
Faye is a writer and full-time mom. She loves planning trips to the beach, tasting new cuisines and discovering gems in the Philippines. But if she had to choose, London is her favourite place in the world and she can't wait to travel there again with her hubby and baby!
Ela is a storyteller, content producer, solo traveller and a mermaid-in-training. When she’s not in front of her laptop, you will find her barefoot and living her best tan on some island in the Philippines… Or exploring the depths of its seas as a budding freediver. An island girl at heart, she’ll be happy anywhere there is sea, sand, sun and coffee.
