2 Ways to Travel from La Union to Manila - by <Strong>Bus</Strong> and <Strong>Private Transport</Strong>

In this in-depth route guide, you'll find the best ways to travel the 265 kilometre distance from La Union to Manila. Whether you prefer the scenic overnight train, a convenient bus+ferry combo, or the fastest flight option — we've got all the details you need.

There are 2 ways to get from La Union to Manila. You can choose between the private transport, bus. The most affordable option is by private transport, starting from $280. The fastest route is by private transport (5h ).

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Transport	Duration	Price	Best For	Popularity
Private TransportFastestBudget	5h	($280)	--
Bus	6h	($554)	--

Route Overview

La UnionManila265 km

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Private Transport

5hFrom ~$280

A private transfer from La Union to Manila is the most convenient option. The journey takes about 5h, and you’ll be dropped off right at your accommodation — no need to worry about extra transfers. Several companies offer private transfers from any province in Luzon to Manila. Ask your hotel for referrals or browse Facebook groups for recommendations from La Union to Manila. Prices start at around [price 6,000 PHP] for a 4-seater sedan. If you're in a bigger group, an 8-seater van usually goes for about [price 10,000 PHP]. Another option is to book your private transfer on BookAway — more expensive, but saves you the hassle of looking everywhere for a driver you can trust. Plus, BookAway has a responsive customer service in the off chance that you have any complaints about your ride. Prices for private transfer on BookAway start at $280 for a -seater. Split it with your group, and it’s about each.

Ready to book your private transport?

From ~$280 · 5h

Bookaway

Bus

6h - 7h 25mFrom ~$554

There are three bus operators for the La Union to Manila route: Maria De Leon Transportation, Viron Transit and Partas Transportation Company. Partas has several trips daily. You can book online with BookAway to reserve your tickets. If you prefer Viron Transit or Maria De Leon Transportation, you may contact them through their Facebook pages for more details on booking and reservations. If you’re travelling on a weekend or in a busy season, it’s best to book your tickets online at least a week before. This way, you’ll have a better chance of securing a seat back to Metro Manila. Ticket prices start from $554 for a journey that takes around 6h - 7h 25m.

Departure stations

You can catch a Partas bus from their stations in San Juan and San Fernando. Maria De Leon buses depart from Bataan Transit Bus Terminal, while Viron Transit buses leave from Viron Transit Terminal in San Fernando. San Fernando is a 10-minute jeepney or tricycle ride from San Juan. Fares start from [price 13 PHP] for the jeepney and [price 200 PHP] for a "special" tricycle ride. These companies also have buses originating from Ilocos passing through La Union National Highway. You can try waiting for a bus along the main road, but note that seats are not guaranteed.

Ready to book your bus?

From ~$554 · 6h - 7h 25m

Bookaway

KEY LOCATIONS

Departure & Arrival Stations

La Union

ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

Why Visit Manila?

Manila is the capital of the Philippines — an old city often disregarded by travellers who use it only as a gateway to the country's more visually appealing islands. But if you have an extra day in your itinerary, we think Manila's colourful history is a great way to kick off your trip. Explore the walled city of Intramuros, Fort Santiago, Manila Cathedral and San Agustin Church — all of which were first built in the late 1500s. Art and anthropology also attract many locals to Manila. You will find here the National Museum, a complex of three museum buildings that tell the story of the Filipinos.

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Carbon Footprint

This 265 km journey produces approximately 24 g CO2 by bus. Taking public transport is one of the lowest-emission ways to travel this route.

Traveller Reviews

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4.36 reviews

Used the Songserm ferry from Koh Samui. Cheaper than Lomprayah but takes a bit longer. Still a perfectly fine crossing. The views approaching Koh Tao are stunning either way.
O
Oliver S.November 2025
Ferry

Train via Surat Thani was our pick. More scenic than Chumphon route and the Lomprayah catamaran from Tapee Pier is very comfortable. Book the special express train for the quickest ride.

Jenny L.Jan 2026

Train

The overnight bus with Montanatip was okay but not great. The bus was older and the seats didn't recline much. Ferry portion was fine though. If you're on a tight budget it works.

Carlos V.Oct 2025

Bus

Took the sleeper train to Chumphon — magical! Woke up to palm trees and transferred to the Lomprayah catamaran. Whole journey felt like an adventure.

Maya R.Dec 2025

Train

Lomprayah bus+ferry combo from Khao San Road was seamless. Departed at 6am, arrived Koh Tao by 3pm. Well organized.

David H.Feb 2026

Bus

Flew to Koh Samui and took Lomprayah catamaran. More expensive but saved a full day. Worth it if your holiday is short.

Sophie K.Jan 2026

Flight

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How to Get from La Union to Manila

Compare Your Options

Private Transport

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Bus

Departure stations

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Departure & Arrival Stations

Why Visit Manila?

How We Research

Traveller Reviews

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Where to Stay in Manila

Somerset Central Salcedo Makati

Hotel 101 Manila

Hop Inn Hotel Makati Avenue