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.

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 ($9.40).

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 ($9.40) 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 ($3.40) 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.

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 ($170).

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 16,000 PHP ($280) for a 3-seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about 5,500 PHP ($93) each.

Private Transport options from La Union to Manila