By bus from Manila: The most common approach. Multiple bus companies — including JAC Liner, DLTB, and Raymond Transport — operate regular departures from the Buendia (Gil Puyat) and Cubao terminals in Manila. Journey time is around 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic. Most buses terminate at or pass through the Grand Central Terminal on Diversion Road, Lucena's main transit hub.
By van: Faster shared vans operate from the same Manila terminals and can shave an hour off the journey. They fill up quickly during peak hours.
By ferry to Marinduque: Ferries to Marinduque depart from the Dalahican Port on the southern edge of the city, not from the city centre. Jeepneys and tricycles from the terminal run to Dalahican. Montenegro Shipping Lines and MBRS Lines both operate crossings; the trip to Balanacan or Santa Cruz takes about two hours. Check schedules locally as they change by season.
By road from Bicol: Lucena sits at the northern end of the Maharlika Highway, making it the natural first stop for travellers arriving overland from Bicol, Samar, or the Visayas.