What to expect when visiting 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.
2 ways to get from Legazpi to Manila
There are two ways to travel the distance of 500 km (311 miles) from Legazpi to Manila: by bus (13h10m-13h40m) and flight (1hr 20m). The journey takes between 1h20m - 13h40m and the quickest way is by flight. The lowest priced tickets start from 1,100 PHP ($19.50) for the flight.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.
Legazpi to Manila by Flight
Flying from Legazpi to Manila is not only faster, but it is also cheaper than taking the bus if you book your flight early enough.
Cebu Pacific offers the cheapest fares for this route, with ticket prices ranging from 1,100 PHP ($19.50) to 2,200 PHP ($39.00) for a one-way economy trip.
Philippine Airlines (PAL) also offers a few flights daily, but it’s usually more expensive. When flights with Cebu Pacific are fully booked, then booking with PAL is your alternative.
Planes depart from Bicol International Airport and land at Terminal 2 or 3 of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA). The terminal depends on which airline you pick.
Tip: Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines offer many promotions annually. Keep an eye out for these promos so you can book cheap flights for this route!
TIP: If you decide to travel by plane, please consider including a carbon compensation fee to reduce your impact on the environment.
Legazpi to Manila by Bus
If for some reason you decide to take the bus from Legazpi to Manila, prepare to travel for around 14 hours. We recommend taking a night bus so that you won’t lose a day on travelling and you could also save a night on accommodation.
Fares start from 1,200 PHP ($21.00) for a regular tourist bus from Legazpi to Manila.
Departure and arrival station
All buses depart from Grand Central Terminal within Legazpi city centre.
Penafrancia Tours and Bicol Isarog park at Parañaque Integrated Terminal, located 9 km southwest of Makati.
DLTB Co., on the other hand, makes a short stopover in Pasay City before heading to its terminal in Aurora, Cubao. Double-check your bus company’s drop-off and endpoints to know which one is the best option for your destination in Metro Manila.
Bus schedule from Legazpi to Manila
Which bus to take from Legazpi to Manila?
All of the companies mentioned above – DLTB, Penafrancia Tours, and Bicol Isarog – are trusted operators for the Legazpi to Manila route. So it doesn’t really matter which company you travel with. It will be more important to pick the right bus.
There are five types of buses available for this route.
Our favourite 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
Frequently Asked Questions about Legazpi to Manila
What is the distance from Legazpi to Manila?
The distance from Legazpi to Manila is 500 km (311 miles).
What is the fastest way to get from Legazpi to Manila?
The fastest way to get from Legazpi to Manila is by flight and takes 1hr 20m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Legazpi to Manila?
The cheapest way to get from Legazpi to Manila is by flight with ticket costs starting from 1,100 PHP ($19.50).
Rounding it up
We hope this guide was helpful in planning how to get from Legazpi 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!
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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.
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.
My biyahi po ba alas 8pm
Hi Rey! As of press time, the last bus trip from Legazpi to Manila departs at 6:30PM! Safe travels!