🚕 How to Get Around Quezon Province (DIY & Commuter Guide)

Getting around Quezon Province doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, it’s one of the reasons I often recommend Quezon for DIY, solo, and slow travelers. Whether you’re commuting or doing a simple road trip, transport here is familiar, affordable, and very local.

This guide is based on actual commuter-style travel around Lucena, Tayabas, Lucban, and Sariaya, with updated tips, estimated rates, and what to expect on the ground.

---

🌱 A Personal Note Before We Start

Coming from Marinduque, commuting has always been part of my travel mindset. Buses, jeepneys, and tricycles were never barriers—they were just how you moved.

Quezon feels the same way. Drivers are patient, routes are easy to ask about, and locals don’t mind giving directions. If you’re new to provincial travel, Quezon is a good place to start.

---

🏙️ Using Lucena City as Your Transport Base

Lucena City is the transport hub of Quezon Province. Most routes—whether going to Lucban, Tayabas, Sariaya, Real, or Infanta—pass through or originate here.

📍 Lucena Grand Terminal is where you’ll usually:
• arrive from Manila
• transfer to jeepneys or vans
• return to Manila

If you’re commuting, staying near Lucena makes everything easier.

---

🛺 Tricycles (Short Distances)

Tricycles are the most common mode of transport within towns.

Where you’ll use them:
• Hotel to terminal
• Church to market
• Short town-center trips

💰 Estimated Rates (2025):
• ₱15–₱20 – very short rides
• ₱30–₱50 – within town
• ₱60–₱100 – special trips (no other passengers)

💡 Tips:
• Always clarify “special trip” vs regular fare
• Rates increase slightly at night or during festivals
• Exact change helps

---

🚐 Jeepneys (Town-to-Town Travel)

Jeepneys are the cheapest and most reliable way to move between nearby towns.

Common Routes & Sample Fares:

• Lucena ↔ Tayabas – ₱20–₱30
• Lucena ↔ Sariaya – ₱25–₱35
• Lucena ↔ Lucban – ₱40–₱60

Jeepneys usually depart when full, but waiting time is rarely long during the day.

💡 Tips:
• Sit near the driver if unsure where to get off
• Don’t hesitate to say “Para po” — drivers are helpful
• Keep small bills ready

---

🚐 Vans (Faster but Slightly Pricier)

UV Express vans are available at terminals for faster trips.

When to take a van:
• If you’re short on time
• During peak hours
• For longer routes

💰 Estimated Rates:
• Lucena ↔ Lucban: ₱70–₱100
• Lucena ↔ Infanta/Real: ₱150–₱250 (varies by distance)

💡 Vans usually wait until full before departing.

---

🚌 Buses (Longer Routes & Manila Trips)

Buses are best for:
• Manila ↔ Lucena
• Lucena ↔ Infanta / Real

💰 Estimated Bus Fares:
• Manila ↔ Lucena: ₱350–₱450
• Lucena ↔ Real/Infanta: ₱200–₱300

Major bus companies operate from Cubao, Buendia, and Alabang.

---

🚗 Car Rental / Private Vehicle (DIY Road Trip)

If you’re traveling as a group or want flexibility, renting a car or driving your own is ideal.

Why it works well in Quezon:
• Roads are generally well-paved
• Towns are close to each other

• Easy parking in most areas

💰 Estimated Costs:
• Fuel (3D/2N loop): ₱2,000–₱3,000
• Car rental: varies by provider

💡 Best option if visiting multiple towns in one day.

---

🏝️ Getting to Beaches & Islands

🌊 Real & Infanta

• Bus or van from Lucena
• Travel time: 3–4 hours

🏝️ Jomalig Island

• Lucena → Real/Infanta
• Boat transfer (early morning only)
• Separate budget & planning required

⚠️ Always check weather and boat schedules.

---

🎉 Festival Season Transport Tips

During Pahiyas (May) and Niyogyugan (August):
• Expect higher tricycle rates
• Longer waiting times
• Earlier last trips at night

💡 Travel early in the morning and pre-arrange rides if possible.

---

🧭 Sample DIY Transport Loop (Commuter-Friendly)

Day 1: Manila → Lucena → Tayabas
Day 2: Lucena → Lucban → Lucena
Day 3: Lucena → Sariaya → Manila

All doable without a car.

---

📝 Getting around Quezon Province is simple, affordable, and refreshingly human. You don’t need ride-hailing apps or complicated schedules—just patience, small bills, and the willingness to ask.