Frequently asked questions

Question 1

Which airport serves Manila?

Accepted Answer

Manila is served by Ninoy Aquino International Airport (IATA: MNL, ICAO: RPLL), known as NAIA, the main air gateway to the Philippines. The airport is located around 7 km south of Manila's city centre, on the border between Pasay and Parañaque cities. NAIA handled a record 50.1 million passengers in 2024 and is the fifth busiest airport in Southeast Asia. The complex has four separate terminals that are not connected to each other: T1 for international flights of non-Philippine Airlines carriers, T2 exclusively for Philippine Airlines, T3 the largest and most modern for international and domestic flights of other carriers, and T4 for domestic flights on small aircraft. Free shuttles connect the terminals 24/7, but the transfer takes 30 to 50 minutes due to traffic. Always check your terminal carefully before departure. Book your ticket and land in the heart of Southeast Asia.

Question 2

How do you get from Manila airport to the city centre?

Accepted Answer

The airport is 7 km from Manila's city centre, but Manila's traffic is among the most congested in the world, so the journey can take between 30 minutes and 2 hours. The Grab app (the local equivalent of Uber) is the most recommended option: the fare to Makati or BGC is around 250 to 500 pesos, with the price displayed upfront and payment by card. Official yellow airport taxis are available at the exit of each terminal with metered fares, around 300 to 600 pesos to the centre. Avoid unofficial taxis that approach you in the airport: they frequently overcharge. P2P (Point-to-Point) buses connect the airport to key destinations in Metro Manila at fixed fares of around 50 to 100 pesos. Jeepneys or public buses with large luggage are not recommended. Plan at least 3 hours before an international flight. Book your ticket and plan your transfer well in advance.

Question 3

Is Manila safe to visit?

Accepted Answer

Manila is a destination that requires increased caution. The US State Department gives the Philippines a Level 2 advisory for Manila, with higher levels (3 or 4) for Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago, which should be avoided entirely. Violent crime exists in Manila but rarely targets tourists who stay in recommended areas: Makati, Bonifacio Global City (BGC), Intramuros (daytime), the Pasay area, and shopping malls. Avoid the Tondo and San Andres neighbourhoods, which hold no tourist interest. The main risks for tourists are scams from unofficial taxis, ATM theft, phone and bag snatching, and drink spiking in bars. Use only the Grab app for transport, do not drink tap water, do not participate in political protests, and do not display valuables. The Philippines is vulnerable to typhoons (June to November) and earthquakes. Book your ticket and discover the fascinating capital of the Philippines with adequate preparation.

Flights from cities from Moldova to Manila