About the journey from Manila to Baguio
Taking the 204 kilometer (127 mile) trip from Manila to Baguio in the Philippines, you will see some of the more interesting cities of Luzon Island. Baguio is a busy city that was colonized by both Spanish and American settlers before quickly becoming highly urbanized. It is home to a rainbow of colorful houses that stretch up the hillsides. There is still some natural beauty left in this area, as the mountains are vibrantly green and lush, and on days when the city gets hazy, you can climb up to view and explore these wonderful peaks. An unbeatable place for expansive views is the Mines View Observation Deck which is not to be missed.
The journey from Manila to Baguio can be taken by car or bus. For travel on a budget, the best option is by bus. Car travel is comparatively quicker and great for more private travel while you can choose your own departure times. Depending on which transport you take, the journey from Manila to Baguio will take between 4.5 and 6.5 hours.
Bus travel is a recommended option for traveling from Manila to Baguio. Despite the cheap price of the tickets, you can expect to find clean, comfortable, and well-supplied buses.
Going from Manila, the capital of the Philippines, to Baguio, the green “City of Pines” is a great way to see different city landscapes on the island region of Luzon. Your arrival in Baguio will be met with the bustle of the city as well as vibrant color, mountain peaks, and friendly people.
What to see when traveling from Manila to Baguio
At the beginning of your trip from Manila to Baguio, you will drive alongside the huge natural harbor of Manila Bay where you can expect to see everything from fishing boats to pricey yachts. There are a few road routes that can take you from Manila to Baguio, but most will pass by some national parks such as Mount Arayat just outside of Manila that is home to a potentially active stratovolcano.
You will notice along the way the many Spanish-influenced town names such as La Paz and San Fernando from the colonization period. When you get closer to Baguio, you will start to see the coastline a little more, as well as the Bued River which runs into Lingayen Gulf on the west of Luzon island.
How to get from Manila to Baguio
Taking a bus
Buses from Manila to Baguio are usually of a high standard with Tourist and Luxury classes. The buses have comfortable seats and lots of amenities. On board most buses you will find air conditioning, TVs, chargers, reclining seats, toilets and sometimes Wi-Fi. This is a direct bus service, meaning there will not be stops for other passengers to board, but this also means there will not always be an opportunity for rest stops. Buses allow for 15kg worth of luggage, but a small bag kept at your seat will also be fine. Bus tickets are affordable, and when booking a return journey, you can save up to 20%. The bus station you will be dropped at is close to many places to eat, hotels, and Burnham Park if you would like to take a stroll after your trip.
Taking a car
Traveling by car from Manila to Baguio is a private transfer that can take between 3-5 passengers depending on the operator. This is a pricier option than bus travel, but is convenient as it is the quickest way to get from Manila to Baguio, and can pick you up and drop you off at any hotel in your departure and arrival cities. Cars can also pick you up from Manila airport if you would like to head straight to Baguio from there. Some cars will travel through toll booths, which are not part of the original ticket price and you may be expected to pay an additional charge for. If you would like to stop for a toilet break, you can request this from your driver.
What is the best time of year to visit Manila?
A good time to visit Manila is in the dry season between January and April, with January and February being the cooler and drier months. This time gives you the best chance to explore Manila to the fullest.
What is the best time of year to visit Baguio?
The best time of year to visit Baguio is also between January and April for cooler and drier weather. March to May is the peak season in Baguio when the weather starts to get hotter.
