Guides
Rawalpindi and Islamabad: How to Use the Twin Cities as One Trip
The Metro Bus, Murree Road and the airport make the twin cities easy to combine. How to plan, and where to base yourself.
Rawalpindi and Islamabad are separate cities that behave like one metropolitan area. The Metro Bus runs between them along Murree Road, the airport sits on the road to both, and most visitors use them together.
Why base yourself in Rawalpindi
An apartment in Rawalpindi often gives more space and a better price than the same flat in Islamabad. You are still only a bus or car ride from the embassies, the museums and the Margalla Hills.
Why base yourself in Islamabad
Quieter streets, more cafes and an easier pace. This suits guests who spend most of their time in the capital.
Getting around
- Metro Bus: quick and cheap between Saddar and Islamabad.
- Ride-hailing apps and taxis: widely used for door-to-door trips.
- A private driver: worth it for a full day of sightseeing. Ask us before you travel and we can suggest one.
Airport transfers
Islamabad International Airport is usually 30 to 60 minutes from either city depending on traffic and the area.
A simple plan
Sleep in Rawalpindi for value and markets, spend your days in Islamabad for sights and meetings, and finish with a night in Murree if you want the hills.
Message us on WhatsApp and we will help you split your nights across the three.
