Communication between Quezon City and Manila is one of the most frequently used routes by commuters, tourists, and business travellers in the Philippines. Both Quezon City, the largest city in the country in terms of population, and Manila are bustling residential and commercial centers. In Quezon City, the house is home to historic areas such as Intramuros, Rizal Park, and modern business districts, whereas in Manila are the historic landmarks. The trip is a short distance between the normal life of Quezon City neighborhoods such as Cubao or Fairview with the cultural and economic centre of Manila. Be it a meeting at Makati, an adventure of the Chinatown in Binondo, or a visit to relatives, knowing the distance between Quezon City and Manila and the possible modes of transport is enough to make the travel hassle-free. Having to deal with heavy traffic on a daily basis, smart decisions can save hours.
Distance from Quezon City to Manila
The Quezon City Manila distance is remarkably short, and the distance is usually between 10 and 12 km by road, depending on your actual point of departure in Quezon City (e.g., Eastwood City or UP Diliman) and your point of destination in Manila (e.g., Quiapo or Ermita). This is a close-up area and thus a convenient commute in the Metro Manila urban sprawl. The practical route is on straight-line distance, which is shorter by only about 8 km, yet the roads such as the EDSA, C,5, and Quezon Avenue characterize the route.
This distance is a nightmare because of the infamous traffic jam in the Philippines, particularly during the rush hours (7-9 AM and 4-7 PM). You can drive it in 2030 minutes in a typical situation, and during rush hour, it may take you 6090 minutes before you reach the destination. Other forces,s such as construction, jeepney routes, as well as festivals (e.g., Sinulog season spillover) introduce delays. Use applications such as Waze or Google Maps to be updated in real-time- tip-off: always avoid the EDSA southbound during the evenings.
To put it in perspective, the same distance covered by this route will be shorter than most intra-city travels in Mumbai or Bangkok, but is longer because of the density. This is where public transport is brilliant, cost-wise and speed-wise superior to the sprawling global metros, similar to how the Cost of Eating in Manila reflects affordability shaped by urban density.
Best Ways to Reach Manila from Quezon City
Here are the most common and convenient options for traveling between Quezon City and Manila:
1. By Private Car or Taxi
A taxi or driving is convenient to door to door, which is suitable in case of groups or when carrying luggage. Between Cubao and Manila City Hall is a distance of 10-12km through EDSA or Aurora Boulevard. Cabs such as Grab or traditional metered cabs are between ₱150-₱300 (approximately $3 to 6 USD), and Grab charges more during rushes. Personal vehicles provide flexibility but there are not many parking spaces in Manila- find spots with the help of apps.
Pros: Fastest in light traffic (20–40 mins); AC comfort.
Cons: Traffic jams and high tolls on NLEX if extending routes.
Tip: Book Grab in advance; aim for off-peak (10 AM–3 PM).
2. By Bus
Buses are also affordable to the low-end traveler with provincial and city buses at terminals such as Araneta City, Cubao or ESPAÑA Boulevard. Choices are ordinary (₱13 -20) or air-conditioned buses ( 20-30 ) towards the terminals of Manila such as Taft or Lawton terminals. Key routes: Victory Liner or DLTB via EDSA.
Pros: Affordable, frequent (every 5–10 mins); seats available outside rush hour.
Cons: Can take 45–90 mins in traffic; crowded.
Tip: Board at Victory Liner Station for direct drops near Manila’s core—check LTFRB for schedules.
3. By Jeepney
The best method of getting to places is the Jeepneys, the colorful iconic vehicles that offer the cheapest fare (₱13-15 flat fare) such as Commonwealth to Quiapo via España. They are everywhere, cleaning up national highways.
Pros: Ultra-cheap, adventurous vibe; hop-on-hop-off flexibility.
Cons: Slower (60–90 mins), cramped, and indirect—may require transfers.
Tip: Modern e-jeepneys are cleaner and phased in under PUVMP; signal “para” to stop.
4. By MRT (Metro Rail Transit)
An MRT Line 3 is a time-saving train, taking 20 to 30 mins to travel between North EDSA (Quezon City) and Taft Avenue (Manila edge) at ₱13- 28. Direct connection with such stations as Quezon Ave or Kamuning; switch to LRT-1, which gives greater access to Manila.
Pros: Traffic-proof, frequent (every 5–10 mins, 5 AM–10 PM); cheapest fast option.
Cons: Crowded peaks; ends at Taft, needing bus/jeepney extension.
Tip: Buy a Beep card for seamless fares; first train at 4:30 AM.
Travel Tips for the Journey
- Beat the traffic: Drive before 7 AM or after 9 PM; Waze allows you to find alternative routes such as C5.
- Cashless transaction: Top up Beep card to ride MRT/LRT/jeepneys; Grab is card-friendly.
- First things first: Use licensed transport; do not use unmarked taxis during the night.
- Weather outlook: Monsoons drown EDSA-take MRT; carry light in case of riding in the crowd.
- Budget hack: MRT + jeepney that costs less than 50 in total.
- Health tip: Wearing masks in vehicles during the post-pandemic.
FAQs: Quezon City to Manila Distance & Travel
1. How far is Quezon City from Manila?
The road distance is typically 10–12 km (6–7.5 miles), depending on start and end points.
2. How long does it take to travel from Quezon City to Manila?
Travel time ranges from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic and mode of transport.
3. What is the fastest way to reach Manila from Quezon City?
Taking a private car or taxi is often fastest, although MRT can be quicker during heavy road traffic.
4. Is there a train option between Quezon City and Manila?
Yes—the MRT system connects parts of Quezon City to central Manila with transfers.
5. Are jeepneys a good option for this route?
Jeepneys are the cheapest option but typically slower and less direct than buses, taxis, or rail.
Disclaimer: Stay updated with the latest news in Philippines from politics to business trends, while also catching up on the latest news in sports covering matches, scores, and tournaments. Explore the latest news in entertainment with celebrity updates, movies, and shows, and don’t miss the latest news in games, featuring trending releases and esports highlights.
