The Convenience of Taxis and Private Transfers in Vietnam

Hailing Taxis on the Streets

Taxis offer a great way to explore Vietnam’s bustling cities and vibrant streets. Exploring these urban landscapes often involves hailing a taxi directly from the street. In Vietnam, two reputable taxi companies, Vinasun and Mai Linh, stand out for their reliability, professionalism, and excellent service. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of hailing a taxi on the streets of Vietnam, with a special focus on these companies.

The Art of Hailing a Taxi in Vietnam

Hailing a taxi on the streets of Vietnam may seem like a chaotic endeavor, but with a few tips, you’ll be able to navigate the process smoothly:

1. Choose a Safe Location: Look for designated taxi stands or well-lit areas to hail a taxi. Avoid hailing one in the middle of a busy intersection or a poorly lit street corner.
2. Stand Out: Raise your hand or arm to signal a taxi. Vietnamese taxi drivers are accustomed to this gesture and will recognize it as a request for a ride.
3. Be Patient: Taxis in Vietnam are often in high demand, especially during peak hours. It might take a few minutes for an available taxi to pass by, so be patient and persistent.
4. Use Eye Contact: Make eye contact with the approaching taxi driver to ensure they see your request. This increases the likelihood of them stopping to pick you up.

The Reputable Taxi Companies in Vietnam

When hailing a taxi on the streets of Vietnam, it’s essential to choose reputable companies to ensure your safety and a pleasant travel experience. Vinasun and Mai Linh are two of the most reliable and trusted taxi companies in the country:

1. Vinasun: Vinasun taxis are easily recognizable by their distinctive green and white color scheme. They have a reputation for their professionalism, well-maintained vehicles, and knowledgeable drivers. Vinasun taxis are equipped with meters, ensuring transparent pricing. The company operates in major cities like Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, and Nha Trang.
2. Mai Linh: Mai Linh taxis can be identified by their striking white and green color combination. Similar to Vinasun, Mai Linh is known for its reliable service and well-trained drivers. The taxis are equipped with meters, and the company operates in various cities, including Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.

Tips for a Safe and Smooth Taxi Experience

To ensure a safe and hassle-free taxi experience in Vietnam, consider the following tips:

1. Verify Taxi Identification: Before getting into a taxi, check for the company logo and identification on the vehicle. Vinasun and Mai Linh taxis should have clear branding on the doors and roof, ensuring you’re entering a legitimate vehicle.
2. Meter Usage: Reputable taxi companies like Vinasun and Mai Linh use meters to calculate the fare. Ensure the meter is turned on when you start the journey, and if it isn’t, politely request the driver to activate it.
3. Prepare Small Change: It’s advisable to carry small denomination Vietnamese Dong (VND) notes to pay for your taxi ride. This helps avoid any issues with the driver not having sufficient change.
4. Communicate Clearly: While some taxi drivers in Vietnam may speak English, it’s helpful to have your destination written down in Vietnamese or show it on a map or GPS app. This avoids any potential confusion and ensures a smoother journey. See our Keep Connected page for tips on how to stay online and useful apps.
5. Keep Valuables Secure: As with any taxi ride, it’s important to keep your belongings secure. Avoid displaying expensive items or leaving them unattended during the journey.
6. Traffic Awareness: Traffic in Vietnam can be chaotic, particularly in major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Be prepared for heavy traffic and plan your journey accordingly, especially during peak hours.

Alternatives to Street Hailing: Booking Private Transfers and Taxis

If hailing a taxi on the street feels overwhelming, there are alternative options available in Vietnam. Here are a few methods to consider:

1. Online Booking: Numerous online platforms and travel agencies provide the option to book private transfers and taxis in advance. These platforms allow you to compare prices, read reviews, and select the most suitable service for your needs. 12Go offers online booking of (shared) transfers and taxis as well as other transportation alternatives.
2. Hotel Concierge: If you prefer a more personalized approach, your hotel concierge can assist you in booking private transfers and taxis. They often have established relationships with trusted transportation providers, ensuring a reliable and efficient service.
3. Mobile Apps: Many Vietnamese ride-hailing apps, such as Grab (iOS and Android), are popular and widely used throughout the country. These apps allow you to book taxis, private cars, or motorbike taxis directly from your smartphone. They provide transparent pricing, GPS tracking, and often have English language support. Check our Keep Connected page to stay online while in Vietnam.

Airport Transfers

1. Airport Taxis: Airport taxis are a popular choice for travelers looking for convenience and a direct transfer from the airport to their destination. In Vietnam, reputable taxi companies like Vinasun and Mai Linh often have dedicated taxi stands at major airports. These companies have well-maintained vehicles, professional drivers, and transparent pricing through the use of meters. It’s recommended to look for official taxi stands and avoid soliciting taxis from individuals outside the terminal to ensure your safety and avoid potential scams.
2. Ride-Hailing Apps: Ride-hailing apps have revolutionized the transportation industry, and Vietnam is no exception. Most popular is Grab (see above iOS and Android)
3. Pre-arranged Airport Transfers: For travelers who prefer to have their transportation arranged in advance, pre-arranged airport transfers are a convenient option. Many hotels and travel agencies offer this service, allowing you to book a private car or shuttle that will be waiting for you upon arrival. Pre-arranged transfers provide peace of mind, especially if you are arriving late at night or have specific requirements. It’s advisable to book through reputable providers like Kiwitaxi or contact your hotel to ensure a reliable and comfortable transfer.

For other ways to get around Vietnam check our Getting Around Pages. For other practical tips for travelers in Vietnam refer to our Practicalities pages where you can find information on Visa Requirements, Weather, Money, Health and Safety and how to Keep Connected. Our Destination pages will help you get the most out of your trip to Vietnam.