Booking a Taxi in Vietnam: What Every Tourist Needs to Know
Looking to book a taxi in Vietnam? Discover how to book a taxi with Explore Vietnam, offering comfortable, affordable, and reliable travel options for tourists. Read our guide for essential tips and booking instructions.
Traveling in Vietnam is an adventure of a lifetime. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the tranquil beauty of Ha Long Bay, this vibrant country offers a wide range of unforgettable experiences. However, navigating between these destinations can be a challenge if you’re not familiar with local transportation. One of the most convenient and stress-free ways to get around is by taxi — and knowing how to book one properly can save you both time and money.
Whether you’re exploring Hanoi’s historic streets, venturing into the Mekong Delta, or heading to the beaches of Da Nang, understanding your taxi options will help ensure a smoother journey. In this guide, Explore Vietnam breaks down everything tourists need to know about booking a taxi in Vietnam, including safety tips, top apps, fare advice, and cultural etiquette.
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1. Why Use a Taxi in Vietnam?
While Vietnam’s public transportation network is growing, it doesn’t always meet the needs of travelers — especially those unfamiliar with the local language or routes. That’s where taxis come in. They offer several key benefits:
- Convenience and comfort – No need to navigate crowded buses or unfamiliar train systems.
- Door-to-door service – Great for those carrying luggage or arriving late at night.
- Safety – Trusted companies and apps offer a secure way to travel.
- Predictable pricing – Apps let you see the fare upfront.
Of course, as in many popular tourist destinations, some travelers report issues with inflated prices or scams. But with a bit of knowledge and planning, you can avoid these common pitfalls.
2. Traditional Taxis vs. Ride-Hailing: Pros & Cons
In Vietnam, you’ll find both traditional taxis and ride-hailing apps. Here’s how they compare:
Traditional Taxis
Pros:
- Easily recognized with company branding.
- Often use meters for fare calculation.
- No smartphone required.
- Can sometimes negotiate for longer or custom routes.
Cons:
- Some drivers may refuse to use the meter.
- Language barriers are common.
- Higher risk of overcharging in tourist areas.
Ride-Hailing Apps
Pros:
- Fare estimates are shown before you confirm the ride.
- Track your trip in real-time.
- Safer: driver’s name, car model, and license plate are displayed.
- Pay with cash or card in the app.
Cons:
- Limited coverage in rural areas.
- Drivers can cancel unexpectedly.
- Surge pricing can apply during busy times.
Most travelers use a hybrid approach—ride-hailing apps when available in cities and traditional taxis in remote areas or for long-distance trips.
3. Top Taxi Apps & Booking Platforms in Vietnam
Vietnam’s ride-hailing scene has grown rapidly. These are the most widely used and trusted platforms:
| App / Platform | Coverage | Key Features |
| Grab | Nationwide | Car & bike rides, food delivery, upfront pricing |
| Vinasun Taxi | Ho Chi Minh City & others | Reliable taxi brand with its own app |
| VATO | Emerging cities | Multiple vehicle types, backed by Phuong Trang |
| MyGo | 63 provinces | Offers both cars and motorbikes, Viettel-owned |
| TaxiGo | Local cities | Connects to affordable options in various areas |
| Xanh SM | Major cities | Electric cars & bikes, eco-friendly, nationwide presence |
Pro Tip: Install a couple of these apps before your trip and link a payment method. Try a short ride near your hotel to get familiar with the interface.
4. Step-by-Step: How to Book a Taxi Using an App
Booking through a ride-hailing app in Vietnam is easy if you follow these steps:
- Download & install your chosen app.
- Register your phone number and verify your account.
- Enable GPS/location so the app can detect your pickup point.
- Enter your destination or select it on the map.
- Choose vehicle type (e.g., 4-seater, motorbike, 7-seater).
- Review the fare estimate shown before booking.
- Confirm the ride, and you’ll receive the driver’s details.
- Track your ride in real time and monitor the route.
- Pay via card, app wallet, or cash at the end.
Always check that the car’s license plate and driver match what’s shown in the app before getting in. If it doesn’t match, cancel the ride.
5. How to Book a Traditional Taxi (Without an App)
When apps aren’t available, you have several alternatives:
A. Call a Taxi Hotline
Most reputable taxi companies have phone numbers for direct bookings. Tell them your location and destination—they’ll dispatch a driver.
B. Ask Your Hotel
Hotels often partner with trusted taxi providers. They can book you a ride and even help negotiate a fair rate or fixed price.
C. Hail One on the Street
In big cities, you can simply wave down a passing taxi. Look for reputable brands like Mai Linh (green taxis) and Vinasun (white taxis).
D. Use Taxi Stands
At airports, train stations, or markets, go to official taxi stands. Avoid unlicensed drivers offering rides outside those areas.
Tip: Always confirm the driver will use the meter—or agree on a price before the ride starts.
6. Estimating Fares & Extra Charges
Understanding how fares work helps you avoid being overcharged:
- Base fare (flag fall): VND 10,000–15,000 (~$0.50–$0.70 USD)
- Per kilometer rate: VND 5,000–8,000/km depending on company
- Waiting time: Additional fee if stuck in traffic
- Night/holiday surcharge: Applies in the evenings or on public holidays
- Toll fees: You may need to pay highway or bridge tolls separately
- Luggage fees: Some companies charge extra for large bags
Ride-hailing apps usually show an all-inclusive estimate, while for traditional taxis, always ask before the ride begins.
7. Safety Tips & How to Avoid Common Scams
Safety should always be a top priority. Follow these tips to protect yourself:
- Match the license plate and driver info to your app before getting in.
- Use apps or hotel bookings to avoid unverified taxis.
- Avoid taxis loitering near tourist hotspots—many are unlicensed.
- Watch your route on Google Maps during the trip.
- Pay attention to cash transactions—note-switching is a common scam.
Common Scams to Avoid
- Meter “malfunctions” or refusal to use it
- Long detours to increase the fare
- Fake branded taxis with no real company affiliation
- Asking to cancel app rides and pay cash
- Claiming no change or giving incorrect change
If anything feels suspicious, don’t hesitate to end the ride or ask the driver to stop in a public area.
8. Payment Methods in Vietnam
Cash
Still the most widely used method, especially in traditional taxis. Always carry small bills and count your change carefully.
Card / In-App Payments
Apps like Grab and Vinasun offer cashless payment options via credit or debit card. You’ll receive digital receipts for each ride.
Tipping
Tipping isn’t required but is always appreciated. You can round up or leave a small tip (5–10%) for polite, safe, or helpful drivers.
9. Vietnam Taxi Etiquette & Cultural Tips
Vietnamese people appreciate polite behavior, and small gestures go a long way:
- Say “Xin chào” (hello) when entering the taxi.
- Be calm and respectful, even if there’s a misunderstanding.
- Don’t slam the door, gently close it.
- Have your hotel business card with the address in Vietnamese.
- If you don’t speak the language, use a translation app or show the address on your phone.
These small acts of courtesy can help ensure a more pleasant experience for both you and your driver.
Getting around Vietnam doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right information, booking a taxi—whether through a modern app or traditional method—can be easy, safe, and convenient. Taxis remain one of the best ways for travelers to explore cities, access remote areas, and move between destinations comfortably.
Prefer a More Relaxed Travel Experience?
In case you’re tired of the hassle of booking taxis or navigating public transportation, why not take the stress out of travel entirely? At Explore Vietnam, we offer reliable, English-speaking private car services tailored specifically for tourists who value comfort, safety, and convenience.
Whether you’re heading to the airport, planning a day trip, or exploring multiple cities, our professional drivers and modern vehicles ensure a seamless and enjoyable journey without the guesswork. Ready to book your next trip across Vietnam? Contact us today and travel with confidence, knowing you’re in expert hands.