Getting around Hanoi is convenient and affordable with a variety of transportation options available. Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Grab offer reliable and cost-effective ways to navigate the city. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Hanoi taxi prices, reliable taxi services, and how to use Grab and other ride apps to get around.
Getting around by taxi or Grab in Hanoi
Public Transportation
Hanoi’s public transportation system is still developing. The subway system has just started, but it currently has limited stations and coverage areas. Buses are extremely cheap, but they can be difficult to navigate for non-locals due to the challenge of finding bus stops, deciphering schedules, and overcoming language barriers with drivers. Additionally, buses often don’t provide quick and direct routes to your actual destination, making them less convenient for tourists.
Taxis and Ride Apps
Taxis in Hanoi are incredibly convenient and surprisingly affordable, offering door-to-door service. They are ubiquitous, making it easy to hail a taxi at any time. Several taxi companies and ride-hailing apps operate in the city, providing a variety of options for travelers. These services ensure you can quickly and comfortably reach your destination without worrying about navigating public transport. Later in this guide, we will dive deeper into the different taxi companies and apps available.
Motorbike Taxis
Motorbike taxis are a popular alternative to traditional taxis in Hanoi. They offer a few benefits, such as being able to weave through traffic more easily, which can be a significant advantage during rush hour. Motorbike taxis are also cheaper than car taxis and provide a unique experience of riding like a local. However, they come with downsides, including exposure to weather conditions and less safety compared to a car. Despite these drawbacks, motorbike taxis offer a fun and authentic way to experience Hanoi, making the journey itself an adventure, not just a transfer.
Grab & taxi apps in Hanoi
Getting around Hanoi has never been easier with the advent of various ride-hailing apps. Yes, Hanoi has Grab, the largest and most popular ride-hailing service in the city. In addition to Grab, there are several other taxi apps available for use:
- Bee
- GoViet
- G7 Taxi
- Xanh SM (electric taxis)
If you’re only in Hanoi for a short visit, sticking with Grab is perfectly fine. If you’re environmentally conscious, consider downloading the app for Xanh SM electric taxis, which are also widely available in Hanoi.
What is a taxi App?
Taxi apps, or ride-hailing apps, connect passengers with drivers through their smartphones. They offer a convenient alternative to traditional taxis by allowing you to book a ride, track your driver’s location, and pay electronically.
How does it work?
- Download and install a ride-hailing app on your smartphone.
- Create an account and link a payment method (credit card or local mobile wallet).
- Open the app and enter your pick-up and drop-off locations.
- Choose your preferred vehicle type (car or motorbike).
- The app will show you the estimated fare and estimated time of arrival.
- Confirm your booking and wait for your driver to arrive.
- Pay through the app or with cash.
Important Note: To use ride-hailing apps in Hanoi, you’ll need a local SIM card with data.
Taxis in Hanoi
In addition to ride-hailing apps, traditional taxis are readily available in Hanoi. They are a reliable and affordable option for getting around, especially for shorter trips.
How does it work?
Taxis in Hanoi operate with a meter, so there is no need to agree on a price beforehand. The fare is calculated based on the distance traveled, and the meter will display the total amount at the end of your ride.
- Hail a Taxi: You can easily find taxis on the streets, especially in busy areas. Simply wave one down.
- Hotel Assistance: Your hotel can call a taxi for you, ensuring you get a reliable service.
- Communication: While not all drivers speak good English, most can understand basic directions. It’s helpful to have your destination written down in Vietnamese or use a translation app.
At the end of your ride, you pay the amount shown on the meter. It’s best to carry cash, as this is the most widely accepted form of payment. However, some larger taxi companies also offer credit card payment options, providing additional convenience for travelers.
Price of taxi in Hanoi
Taxi fares in Hanoi are calculated based on distance rather than time. The cost is approximately VND 10,000 to VND 15,000 per kilometer, which translates to roughly $0.40 to $0.65 per kilometer. For a 5-kilometer trip, you can expect to pay around VND 50,000 to VND 75,000, or about $2.15 to $3.25, making it a cost-effective mode of getting around Hanoi.
Recommended taxis in Hanoi
Here are some of the safest and most reliable taxi companies in Hanoi, along with tips on how to recognize them:
- Mai Linh Taxi: These taxis are easy to spot with their distinctive green cars and the “Mai Linh” logo. Mai Linh is one of the two largest taxi companies in Vietnam and can be found in most cities and towns across the country.
- Vinasun Taxi: Identified by their white cars with green and red stripes and the “Vinasun” logo. Vinasun is also one of the largest taxi companies in Vietnam and is widely available in many cities and towns.
- Taxi Group: Look for their white cars with red and blue stripes, along with the “Taxi Group” logo.
- G7 Taxi: These taxis are marked with a white and blue color scheme and the “G7” logo.
Renting a car with driver
While taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient for shorter trips within Hanoi, renting a car with a driver offers flexibility and comfort, especially for longer journeys or multi-destination itineraries.
When do you need a car with driver?
Long distance travel: For trips to destinations such as Ninh Binh, Sapa, or the Perfume Pagoda, renting a car with a driver is ideal. Taxis typically do not offer these services, or if they do, it will be very expensive.
Sightseeing: Unlike taxis, which only take you from point A to point B, a rented car with a driver allows you to explore multiple locations at your own pace. The driver waits for you while you visit each place and then takes you to the next destination.
How does it work?
Before renting, discuss your desired itinerary and the estimated duration with the rental company. You will receive a price quote based on your plans. Once you agree on the terms, everything is set. The driver will pick you up and follow the itinerary you have planned, taking you to your desired destinations.
There are no additional costs unless you decide to change the itinerary on the spot. Keep in mind that the driver is not a tour guide. While they can take you to various sites, they won’t provide background information or guided tours. Some drivers may have limited English proficiency. Additionally, entrance fees and meals are not included in the service.
Booking a car with driver in Hanoi
Contact us at Local Vietnam to arrange everything for you. We can help you create an itinerary and find a suitable driver to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Cyclo taxis in Hanoi
Besides standard taxis, Grab rides, and motorbike taxis, Hanoi offers a very traditional option: the cyclo taxi. A cyclo is a three-wheeled bicycle taxi that provides a unique and leisurely way to explore the city. Prices typically range from 100,000 to 200,000 VND per hour, making it an affordable and fun experience. You can use cyclos both for sightseeing tours around town and as a taxi to reach specific destinations, adding a charming and nostalgic touch to your Hanoi adventures.
Taxi scams in Hanoi
Taxis worldwide often have a mixed reputation, and Hanoi is no exception. However, the Vietnamese government is quite strict about taxi regulations. If a driver is reported for scamming, they face penalties and may even be mentioned in online newspapers. Therefore, scams are not as common as you might expect in a developing country, especially if you use common sense and reliable taxi companies. Here are some common scams and how to avoid them:
Meter Tampering: Some drivers manipulate the meter to increase the fare. To avoid this, use well-known taxi companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun, which have a reputation for reliability.
Fixed Fare Scams: A driver might offer a fixed fare instead of using the meter, usually at a much higher rate. Always insist on using the meter or pre-book your ride through a reliable app like Grab.
Taking Longer Routes: Drivers may take unnecessarily long routes to increase the fare. Familiarize yourself with the general direction of your destination or use a navigation app to follow along.
Change Scams: Some drivers might claim not to have change for large bills. Carry smaller denominations to ensure you can pay the exact fare.
Xe Om (Motorbike Taxi) Scams: Motorbike taxis have a higher likelihood of scamming passengers. They might overcharge or take you on longer routes. It’s best to avoid street-hailed motorbike taxis and use Grab for motorbike rides instead.
Tips for using taxis in Hanoi
Get a Vietnamese SIM Card
Having a Vietnamese SIM card is invaluable when using taxis in Hanoi. It allows you to use taxi apps like Grab and also helps with regular taxis by showing your location on Google Maps or searching for the correct address.
Card with your hotel address
Always carry a card with your hotel’s address in Vietnamese. This can be extremely helpful if you need to return to your hotel and the driver doesn’t understand English. Many hotels provide business cards with their address in Vietnamese and English.
Communication
With Grab, there’s typically no need for communication as everything is handled through the app. However, with regular taxis, you might need to explain your destination. Use Google Translate to assist with communication. It’s also a good idea to have the exact location prepared on your phone or written on a piece of paper, which can be more effective than verbal explanations.
Booking a taxi
If you need to be at the airport or another important destination early, it’s wise to book a taxi or car the day before. Many hotels can arrange this service for you, ensuring you have a ride when you need it.
Bring cash
While some larger taxi companies accept credit cards, it’s best to carry cash, as it’s the most widely accepted form of payment. Smaller bills are particularly useful for paying fares and avoiding issues with change.
Peak hours
During rush hour and rainy days, taxis can be in high demand. While there are usually enough taxis available, it can sometimes be harder to find one quickly. Additionally, cars booked through taxi apps can be more expensive during peak times due to increased demand. Plan accordingly and allow extra time for travel during these periods.
