About the ride from Naga to Manila
After exploring Naga, a beach city that’s rich in culture and history, it’s time to continue your journey through the Philippines. There’s no better place to get to know the country than its capital, Manila. But – how to get there?
When traveling the 409 kilometer (254 mile) distance between Naga and Manila, there are two options you can choose from:
- Taking a bus that arrives in Manila in less than 11 hours
- Flying from Naga to Manila
Depending on your budget and personal preferences, one of these two options will be the better choice for you. Travelers who are on a budget might come to the conclusion that the bus is a better option for them. There are several sleeper options available, and you’ll also save money on accommodation.
Those who don’t want to spend 11 hours on a bus can fly from Naga to Manila. Compared to the prices of bus tickets, airfares can be at least double the expense. This difference can jump even higher during the peak season, from November to February.
What to see when traveling from Naga to Manila
Traveling on an overnight bus? There won’t be much to see outside of your window. Use this time to rest, so that you arrive fresh in Manila.
Traveling on a daylight bus? There’ll be some nice things to see during your trip. At the start of your journey, you’ll ride along the coast of Lopez and Calauag Bays. As your journey continues, you’ll pass next to Mount Banahaw and forest reserves. The closer you get to Manila, you’ll go through several cities, and get a sneak peek into everyday life.
Flying from Naga to Manila? Try to grab a window seat and enjoy views of the sea, sky, and the Philippines from the air.
How to get from Naga to Manila
Taking a bus
Traveling on a bus between Naga and Manila is a popular way to travel between these two cities. Even though they’re only 410 kilometers (254 miles) apart, the journey might take up to 11 hours. If you choose to go on a bus, you’ll have several options to choose from, including some sleeper buses. You’ll be able to spend the night in a comfy seat, while still saving money on accommodation.
Here’s a breakdown of different bus options:
Economy / Standard / Tourist buses
When traveling between Manila and Naga, these three types of buses are the cheapest option available. The ticket prices for these rides range between $25 and $29. Passengers can choose between daylight and evening departures.
Even though there are sleeper tickets available, these buses in most cases don’t have reclining seats. If you want to rest and catch up on your sleep during your trip, Economy, Standard, or Tourist buses might not be the best option for you.
These buses have shared TVs, and most of them have A/C, and WiFi (subject to availability). During your journey from Naga to Manila, all buses will make several rest stops.
Additionally, luggage policies may vary between different operators. Some will allow 15 kg luggage per passenger, while others will limit you to carry-on luggage only. Make sure to check this information before you book a ticket, and avoid an unpleasant situation.
VIP buses
In comparison to Economy, Standard, and Tourist buses, VIP ones have slightly better amenities. The main difference between them are the reclining seats, with extra legroom. Because of this, VIP buses are far more comfortable, especially for overnight rides. The type of seating that these buses have is 2 + 1 per row.
VIP buses have slightly better amenities compared to Economy, Standard, and Tourist buses. All of the VIP buses have A/C, toilets on board, shared TVs, reclining seats, and WiFi (subject to availability).
Prices for VIP buses range between $34 and $44. The things that determine the price of your ticket are whether you want to sit alone, or next to another person, and sometimes the departure time.
VIP buses will make several stops during your trip for rest and toilet breaks. Usually, these buses allow 15 kg luggage per passenger.
Tourist Sleeping Buses
From all the bus options you have available on the route between Manila and Naga, Tourist Sleeping Buses are the most comfortable option. They’re also the priciest one. What do these buses have that others don’t? Bunk beds that fully recline, and have curtains. For a price of $44, you’ll get your own sleeping cabin, and arrive in Manila fresh and rested.
When it comes to other amenities, Tourist Sleeping Buses have A/C, toilets on board, TV, and WiFi. The luggage policy is 15 kg per passenger.
Taking a flight
If spending 10 hours on a bus isn’t your cup of tea, there’s another option available. You can fly from Naga to Manila. All planes on this route are equipped with toilets on board and A/C. The flight is short, and you’ll arrive in Manila in a bit more than 1 hour.
Depending on the airline you book with, carry-on luggage may be included in the ticket price. If you do have some questions about luggage policies, you can reach out to Bookaway’s support team.