Complete Cebu Airport Grab Guide – From Landing To City Center
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Using the Cebu Airport Grab is the best and most reliable way to get to the city center. I used Grab last time and it only cost me ~ 400 PHP to the city center. However, for first-time tourists like us could be a bit daunting, especially when landing in the early morning or midnight.
I struggled a bit during my last trip to locate the pick-up point for Grab (which is after the car rental and taxi stand). Thus, I make this step-by-step guideline to make sure your journey is smooth. Noting that if you have a farther destination like Moalboal, the guide would work as well.
1. ETA Declaration
Since 2023, whether you require a Visa to enter the Philippines or not, you are required to complete the ETA. I had been to Cebu twice and was not aware of this new requirement during my last visit. Yet, the ETA can be completed within 72 hours of your flight, so you should do that before landing. I felt a bit annoyed to see the custom queuing line grow while I was filling the ETA>
2. Custom Clearing and Baggage Claim
After submitting your ETA, proceed to the immigration counter for customs clearance. Have your passport, boarding pass, and any required travel documents (such as visas) readily accessible. The immigration process is generally straightforward, but it still takes some time.
Once cleared, head to the baggage claim area to retrieve your luggage.
3. Exit The Airport Hall
With your luggage in tow, exit the airport hall through the designated arrival area. As you step outside, you’ll notice various transportation options, including rental cars and taxis. Unfortunately, there is no clear sign of a Grab location like Thailand or Vietnam.
4. Head To The Path For Grab Pick Up
Finding the Cebu Airport Grab pickup area requires a bit of navigation, as no clear signs direct you to it. After exiting the airport hall, turn right and walk along the designated path until you reach the end. Here, you’ll find numbered bays specifically allocated for Grab pickups, separate from the regular taxi stands. For details, you can also click the departure information on Grab’s apps. However, it would only appear after booking, and the image may not load with a slow internet speed.
5. Wait For The Grab At the End Of The Long Path
Once you’re at the Grab pickup area, open the Grab app and request your ride. Ensure the pickup location is set to Mactan-Cebu International Airport. The app will assign you a driver and direct you to a specific numbered bay for pickup. You can communicate with your driver via the app’s chat feature to confirm your exact location, which is especially helpful if the area is crowded.
6. Estimated Time To Main City Icons & Price
The time and cost of your Grab ride depend on your destination and traffic conditions. Below is a table summarizing estimated travel times and fares for popular routes from Cebu Airport:
| Destination | Estimated Time | Estimated Cost (PHP) | Notes |
| Cebu City or Pier to Bohol | 30-45 minutes | 400 – 500 | Traffic can increase travel time during peak hours. |
| SM Seaside City or Cebu Ocean Park | 40 – 50 minutes | 450 – 550 | Popular shopping and business district; fares align with Cebu City rates. |
| Moalboal | 2-3 hours | 1,500-2,000 | Longer distances, fares may vary based on vehicle type (e.g., 4-seater vs. 6-seater). |
If traveling with a group or extra luggage, opt for a 6-seater vehicle to ensure comfort, and the price would likely be ~ 20% higher.
Grab Is The Best Way For Tourist
Using Cebu Airport Grab is a dependable and user-friendly way to travel from Mactan-Cebu International Airport to your destination. The service’s fixed fares, cashless payment options, and dedicated pickup area eliminate the stress of negotiating with drivers or navigating unclear taxi pricing. Whether you’re heading to Cebu City for business or exploring the scenic beauty of Moalboal, Grab ensures a smooth journey. For added peace of mind, consider using the advanced booking feature to secure your ride, especially during busy travel periods.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grab At Cebu Airport
- Is Grab available at Cebu Airport?
Yes, Grab is available at Cebu Airport. The pickup area is located at the end of the path to the right of the exit doors, with numbered bays for easy identification. - How do I find the Grab pickup area at Cebu Airport?
Exit the airport hall, turn right, and walk to the end of the path. - Can I book a Grab ride in advance for my arrival at Cebu Airport?
Yes, Grab’s booking feature allows you to schedule a ride up to an hour before pickup. But it is not recommended as the customs clearance can be delayed. - What is the estimated time and cost for a Grab ride from Cebu Airport to Cebu City?
The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes and costs around PHP 400 – 500, depending on traffic. - What is the cost of a Cebu Airport to Moalboal Grab ride?
Expect to pay PHP 1,500-2,000 for a 2-3 hour trip, depending on the vehicle type and traffic conditions. It also supports other long distance ride like going to Oslob. - Are there any surcharges for Grab rides from the airport?
GrabTaxi rides may include a PHP 40 surcharge, but GrabCar rides typically have fixed fares without additional charges. - Is it safe to use Grab at Cebu Airport?
Yes, Grab is considered safe, with verified drivers and real-time tracking available through the app. - Can I pay for Grab rides with a credit card?
Yes, Grab supports credit card payments, as well as digital wallets and cash, for added convenience. It is recommended to use a credit card to avoid any potential scam. - What should I do if I can’t find my Grab driver at the pickup area?
Use the Grab app’s chat feature to contact your driver and confirm your location. - Are there other transportation options at Cebu Airport besides Grab?
Yes, white metered taxis and airport shuttles are available, but Grab is often preferred for its transparency and ease of use. There have been multiple taxi scams happened in Cebu Airport before. - Is Uber Available in Cebu?
No, it is not.
