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Leaving the dense capital for the cooler hills of Rizal province is a classic weekend trip for many Filipinos. Antipolo sits on the slopes of the Sierra Madre, and its ridge-side cafes, galleries and pilgrimage sites look back over the Manila skyline.
The distance is short, but traffic in Greater Manila decides how long it takes. You can take the LRT-2 train or book a private transfer.
Manila to Antipolo by Train (LRT-2)
LRT-2 runs from Recto Station in Manila to Antipolo Station, its eastern end, with 13 stations on a 17.6 km line.[1] End to end takes about 40 minutes, which makes it the most predictable option in rush hour.[1] Stations open daily at 04:50, including weekends and holidays.[2] Fares are low, and a 50 percent discount for all LRT-2 passengers has applied since 23 March 2026.[3] Depending on where you are staying, you may need a local tricycle or jeepney from the station.
Manila to Antipolo by Private Transfer
A private transfer is the door-to-door option for groups, families and travellers with luggage. On booking platforms, it takes from about 2 hours depending on where you start and the traffic, and prices run from about $65 to about $100 per vehicle (October 2026), depending on its size.[4] The vehicles listed are a minivan for up to 3 passengers and vans for 6, 10 or 14 passengers.[4] You can also check availability through GoAsia.cc.
Comparing Your Options
| Mode | Price | Duration | Comfort |
|---|---|---|---|
| Train (LRT-2, Recto to Antipolo) | under $1 | about 40min | Standard |
| Private transfer (minivan or van) | about $65 to $100 per vehicle | from about 2h | High |
Tips for Traveling from Manila to Antipolo
- Avoid Rush Hour: Traffic toward the east is heaviest on weekday afternoons. By road, leave early in the morning or late in the evening if you can.
- Choose the Right Vehicle Size: A larger van costs more but is shared by the whole group and gives room for luggage.
- Check the Route: Marcos Highway and Sumulong Highway are the two main roads up the hill; a navigation app shows which one is clearer.
Timetable
| Flight Pampanga - Manila $ 52.64–178.88 4h 9m – 12h 13m | |
|
| Taxi Manila - Antipolo $ 64.40–97.88 2h | |
|
| Taxi Manila - San Mateo $ 72.12–115.05 1h 30m | |
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| Taxi Manila - Rodriguez $ 89.29–115.05 2h 30m | |
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Frequently Asked Questions
Use the booking tool on this page to compare the transport options currently available from Manila to Antipolo, including current prices and schedules.
The LRT-2 train from Recto to Antipolo is the cheapest option, and a 50 percent fare discount has applied to all LRT-2 passengers since 23 March 2026.
The LRT-2 takes about 40 minutes end to end between Recto and Antipolo. A private transfer takes from about 2 hours on booking platforms and depends on traffic.
About 40 minutes by LRT-2 from Recto, and from about 2 hours by private transfer, depending on the departure point and traffic.
All LRT-2 stations open daily at 04:50, including weekends and holidays. The closing time depends on the station and direction.
Yes, if you choose the right vehicle size. With a lot of luggage, book a larger van even for a small group.
Sources and background
Numbers in the text such as [1] refer to these sources.
- [1] Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA): Railway Operations. Retrieved October 15, 2026.
- [2] Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA): Train Operating Schedule. Retrieved October 18, 2026.
- [3] Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA): Tickets and Fares. Retrieved October 18, 2026.
- [4] 12Go: Manila - Antipolo timetable. Retrieved October 18, 2026.
Guide prices and journey times are indicative, not live quotes. A booked package may include transfers and waiting time as well as the main journey. Check the selected offer, pickup point and current conditions before booking.