As one of the southwestern Philippines’ most popular destinations, Batangas has several options for transportation from Manila (MNL) Airport. When you are on a trip to a vibrant port city such Batangas, the last thing you want to think about is last minute airport transportation. Planning the logistics of your trip can be tedious. You would rather simply enjoy your time from the moment you arrive. We are here to help!
Batangas is about 98 km south and two hours by road from Manila’s Aquino International Airport. With the information below you can decide, based on your needs, which method is best suitable for a stress-free transfer once you step off the plane. Following is a complete guide to obtaining transportation from Manila NAI to Batangas Port.
There are four main modes of transportation from Manila NAI Airport: taxi/bus, private car, taxi or car rental. Within these, there are 4 key areas of concern you should consider regarding this final leg of your journey:
- Travel Time: How long is the journey to Batangas from NAI airport?
- Convenience: Will there be transit switches and different modes of transport required during this trip?
- Comfort: How comfortable is the vehicle? Will you be sharing the transport with others?
- Cost: What is the necessary budget for this journey?
Option 1: Manila Airport Bus from Pasay Station to Batangas
Travel Time: About 4 hours
Convenience: Low
Comfort: Medium
Cost: $$
Summary & Recommendation:
Take a taxi from the arrival’s terminal to Pasay bus station (the closest bus station to the airport), located at Taft Avenue and Gil Puyat. The fare for this taxi ride is roughly P200, however be prepared with extra P100 or P50 bills. You can exchange money at booths in the arrivals area.
Once you reach Pasay bus terminal, look for JAM or CERES buses going to Batangas Pier. They are air-conditioned and run about every 30 minutes during the daytime, but less frequently at night. The bus fare is 155P to 350P (about $3-$7) depending on the time/day.
Another option is to take the FX bus, a shared bus with up to 10 passengers. The FX bus is gaining in popularity as an alternative to the regular bus. The FX gets you to your destination faster, because it takes less time to leave the bus terminals. Batangas-bound FX terminals are found in Cubao, Buendia, Crossing in Mandaluyong and Alabang. Buendia and Alabang bus stations are most convenient for FX transport from the airport to Batangas.
Travel Steps:
Step 1: Exit terminal to taxi queue area
Step 2: Taxi ride to bus station
Step 3: Board bus to Batangas Pier
Step 4: Take a taxi or walk to your final destination in Batangas
Option 2: Manila Airport Car Service to Batangas
Travel Time: 2 hours
Convenience: High
Comfort: High
Cost: Get a Quote
Summary & Recommendation:
For many people, hiring a Manila Airport pickup service is the most convenient and preferable way to get around. A direct airport transfer to Batangas hotel is fast and reliable, especially in a country when so often public transportation tends to get a bit chaotic and confusing. Manila airport car transfers take the hassle out the final leg of your journey. Even better, this service is available 24 hours a day.
Booking car service online is simple and takes very little time to arrange. Your driver will be holding a sign with your name on it in the airport terminal meeting area. He will then help get your luggage to the care and you will enjoy a comfortable, air-conditioned ride directly to your hotel in Batangas.
Travel Steps:
Step 1: Exit to Airport Arrival Hall
Step 2: Greet the driver
Step 3: Travel from airport to your final destination in Batangas
Option 3: Manila Airport by Taxi to Batangas
Travel Time: 2 hours
Convenience: Moderate
Comfort: Moderate
Cost: $$$
Summary & Recommendation:
Taking a taxi directly from the airport to Batangas is another quick option to get there, but it is also one of the most expensive. Typically, the fare from MNL airport to Batangas city center is 1550P to 2100P (about $30-$40).
Once you are able to secure a taxi from the airport, the total drive time is about 1.5 hours. While this is fast, the taxi option may not be as comfortable, as some taxis do not have comfortable seating. Depending on your driver, you will need to ensure his meter is on and have agreed to a price before you begin the trip, to avoid any surprises.
Travel Steps:
Step 1: Exit terminal and locate the taxi stand
Step 2: Book your ride
Step 3: Line up and wait for your turn to take a taxi
Step 4: Get off at your final destination in Batangas
If thinking about public transport or taxi, you may want to consider an upgrade to private car. Affordable and vastly more convenient, a professional car service lets you enjoy the start of your trip comfortably with peace of mind.
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Option 4: Rent a Car from Manila Airport to Batangas
Travel Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
Convenience: Moderate
Comfort: Moderate
Cost: $$$
Summary & Recommendation:
A convenient, yet expensive option is to hire a rental car from the airport, and drive yourself to Batangas. There are a handful of car rental companies where you can pick up a rental car right from the airport terminal.
While this is somewhat convenient, consider whether or not you will need a car once you arrive. In case you discover you don’t need the car after all, you will still need to keep it during your entire stay. You can also opt for a one-way trip, which can add to the cost. On top of all that all the gas cost from point A to B will need to be taken care of by you.
If you prefer a comfortable, hassle-free, safe, and reliable way of traveling a private car hire service might be a better option. This way, you will enjoy a service tailored completely to your schedule and preferences, as well as be able to relax after a long flight while a professional chauffeur drives you to your desired destination.
Final Thoughts
As Batangas is a popular port destination of both locals and tourists, you have several options for getting there from Manila airport. It really depends on what is best for you and the people you are traveling with. For those traveling internationally from the U.S. or elsewhere, having a private car with an English-speaking driver going directly to your place of accommodation is ideal.
Alternatively, if you are traveling from within the country, looking to save a little on transport costs and don’t mind longer transportation time, there are other routes that will prove more suitable. For those who value a more flexible and convenient service tailored to your specific requirements, a private car service is the better choice.
Whichever service you choose, we hope you have a wonderful time in Batangas.