Is There Uber in Hanoi, Vietnam? (2024 Transportation Guide)

Are you planning a trip to Hanoi and wondering how you’re going to get around? Need to know, is there Uber in Hanoi, Vietnam?

The short answer is no, there is Uber available in Vietnam since 2018.

However, you can use ride-share apps like Grab and Go-Jek which are popular alternatives to traditional taxi services. Grab and Go-Jek provide a convenient, reliable way for locals and visitors alike to get around the bustling capital city quickly and affordably.

Not looking for ridesharing from the airport? You can hire a hassle-free and affordable private transfer!

Here are all the details you need to know about getting around Hanoi and beyond!

Uber was in Vietnam until 2018 when the company decided to hand over the reins to Grab, which is now used all over Southeast Asia. Uber wasn’t technically bought out by Grab, but they decided to merge instead giving Uber 27% stock in the company.

Uber is very familiar to Western travelers as it is a well-known and well-established ride-hailing app all over the world, so it might be your first go-to app. Just keep in mind that when you’re in Vietnam, you’ll use Grab or Go-Jek instead.

So, you’re looking to book a trip to places like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh and need a way to get around. The good news is there are alternatives to Uber in Vietnam! The most popular alternative to Uber in Vietnam is Grab.

Local taxis in Southeast Asian countries like Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia are notoriously known to scam foreigners by jacking up the prices or not turning on the taxi meter. That’s why ride-sharing apps like Grab are so important – it provides a more secure, convenient way to get around.

What is Grab?

Grab is a ridesharing app that was created in 2014 in Malaysia and has now been expanded throughout Southeast Asia including countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Cambodia, and Myanmar.

The Grab app is quite user-friendly, especially if you don’t speak or read the language. Similarly to Uber, Grab offers private car and bike rides in Hanoi and other parts of the country.

How to Use the Grab App?

To use Grab, you’ll need to download both the Grab app and What’s App, a messaging platform (like Messenger or WeChat) that allows you to use your personal number on the Grab app without purchasing a local SIM card.

I would highly recommend downloading the Grab app before you get to Vietnam so that you have it set up and ready to use!

Once you download What’s App, input your phone number into the Grab app to register. Grab will then send you a PIN in your What’s App account. After inputting your PIN, your Grab app will be ready to use!

You can also input emergency contact numbers to the Grab app so your friends and family can track your rides.

How to Order a Grab Ride in Hanoi

When it’s time for you to get a ride, open up your Grab app and enter your pickup location. Then you’ll choose the vehicle you’d like.

The JustGrab option is more like a taxi where it’ll find the nearest vehicle and give you a fare upfront. On the other hand, a Grab Car is similar to a private chauffeur or hired car with a fixed fare so you will also know how much you’ll pay when you select it.

You can also choose a scooter ride through Grab. This can be a cheaper option if you are traveling solo. Keep in mind that during the rainy season, you’ll want a rain jacket or poncho to keep dry!

After selecting your preferred choice of vehicle, select your drop-off point then wait for your car to come! The app will give you the details of the car, license plate, and driver information.

How Much is a Grab Ride in Vietnam?

Generally speaking, getting a ride on Grab is very cheap. The cost of a Grab ride in Vietnam can vary depending on the type of ride you’re taking, how far your destination is, and even the time you’re hailing a ride-share.

The base fare of a Grab ride in Hanoi is 25,000 dong + 8,500 dong per kilometer. In USD, that’s a base fare of $1.07 + $0.36 per kilometer.

When you request a ride in the app, it will give you an estimated fare for your trip so that you know the cost of your ride ahead of time.

Grab is also compatible with credit cards (like the Chase Sapphire) so you can use that to pay for your rides automatically, though there is a small charge for cards. If you would prefer, you can also pay in cash after the ride.

Tipping is not mandatory after your ride, however, your driver will appreciate it! You can tip in the app or when you pay cash.

Not looking for ridesharing from the airport? You can hire a hassle-free and affordable private transfer!

Is Grab safe and reliable in Vietnam?

Yes, Grab is reliable to use for getting around in Hanoi and other cities in Vietnam. Grab has a helpful rating system so you can ensure that your driver has good reviews from previous customers.

Also keep in mind that during high traffic or inclement weather, it may take longer to find a Grab ride as everyone is trying to get somewhere.

Grab has a strict code of conduct. If you find anything untoward during your ride, you can report it to Grab. Grab also has an emergency assistance button within the app, where if you ever feel unsafe or are in danger during your ride, you can tap the “I Need Help” button and it will connect you to the police. If you have your emergency contacts set up, they’ll also be notified.

Where Can You book Grab in Vietnam?

Typically, you’ll find Grab is available in large cities and suburbs of Vietnam like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh city. If you are traveling to the countryside, you may find less availability with Grab! Here’s a list of the cities you can use Grab in Vietnam.

Cancellation Rates for Grab Cars in Vietnam

Sometimes things don’t work out and you need to cancel your scheduled ride. There is a small fee of $4 if you decide to cancel your Grab ride after waiting 3 minutes for your ride. Before canceling, you can always check in with your driver in GrabChat. Check out their web page for more information on Grab’s cancellation policy.

Grab as a Super App

A super app is 1 application with many core features so that users do not have to download several apps to use in one country. Grab is a super app, similar to WeChat or Alipay in China.

This means that you can use Grab for more than just booking a ride to get to places. You can use Grab to order food, pay bills, and even shop! This is especially convenient if you are a frequent traveler to Vietnam.

Go-Jek

Go-Jek is a similar ridesharing app and another popular transportation option in Hanoi. Like Grab, you can use Go-Jek for private car rides throughout the city. The Go-Jek app is available in both English and Vietnamese, making it easier for tourists and ex-pats to use.

The difference between Go-Jek and Grab is that Go-Jek is newer so it’s not as popular. You’ll also need a local Vietnamese phone number to use Go-Jek, which can be inconvenient if you’re only visiting for a short time.

Local Taxis

Taxi services are an old-school way of getting around Hanoi and other cities in Vietnam. The fares can be quite reasonable, however, it’s often hard to find a taxi in the city center and many taxi drivers don’t speak English.

If you do decide to take a taxi, make sure to agree on the fare with the driver before getting in. It is also a good idea to take down the taxi’s license plate number and remember to bring cash for payment.

Private Transfer

If you’re just looking to get transportation from the airport to Hanoi, then it may be a good idea to book a private transfer. The ride will take about 45 minutes and costs a fixed fare of $15.

This is a great option if it’s your first time in Hanoi and you’re trying to get your bearings straight! It’s also hassle-free as your private driver will drop you off at the door of your hotel in Hanoi.

Looking for something more convenient? You can hire a hassle-free and affordable private transfer!

Do I need an unlocked phone in Vietnam?

If you’re looking to purchase a SIM card when you land in Hanoi, then yes–you’ll want an unlocked phone. You can request your cell phone provider with a password to unlock your phone or do it through an AT&T request.

If your mobile plan has international roaming, then you may not need an unlocked phone. But you’ll still want to check with your cell phone provider for fees and upcharge costs when using your internet overseas.

Keep in mind that in some remote areas, you may not always have cell phone service either with international roaming or a local SIM card.

Do I need to use a VPN in Hanoi?

Technically no, you don’t need a VPN in Hanoi and Vietnam does monitor internet usage. However, to keep your information (like credit card numbers and passwords) safe, I highly encourage you to use a VPN.

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Can I drive in Vietnam?

U.S. Citizens are not permitted to drive in Hanoi because your driver’s license is not valid–even with an international driver’s license. This is probably for the best anyway as traffic is a bit crazy in the cities!

Is a taxi or Grab better in Hanoi?

Ultimately, a Grab is the better choice for transportation in Hanoi. It’s safe, reliable, cheap, and convenient. You know what you’re paying for and where your driver is coming from. With a local taxi, you might get up-charged and they may not speak English.

How much is a taxi from the airport to Hanoi?

The taxi fare from the airport to Hanoi can be anywhere from $10-$15. If you are considering a taxi, book a Grab ride or private transfer instead. The costs are comparable and they are more reliable.

Do I need to use Grab in Hanoi Old Quarter?

No, you don’t need to use Grab in Hanoi Old Quarter. Since the area is so walkable, you can get to all the touristy places by walking. In fact, as you walk through the hustle and bustle of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you’ll get a glimpse into the local life of Hanoi!

What is the best month to visit Hanoi?

The best time to visit Hanoi is usually from October through April when temperatures are more moderate and rainfall is minimal.

Where is the best place to stay in Hanoi?

The best place to stay in Hanoi really depends on your budget and personal preference. I highly encourage you to stay in Hanoi Old Quarter as this is the heart of Hanoi. However, check out these other neighborhoods to stay in while visiting Hanoi!

What is the best way to get from city to city in Vietnam?

If you are looking to travel long distances, Grab and Go-Jek are not the best choices. You can book a train, bus, or airfare to get around Vietnam. These options are also fairly cost-effective and of course, the quickest way to get around is by flying.

Not looking for ridesharing from the airport? You can hire a hassle-free and affordable private transfer!

So, Uber does not operate in Hanoi. However, Grab is a great alternative and is widely used by locals and tourists alike.

Whether you’re looking for a ride to the airport or just getting around town, Grab offers reliable, convenient, and cheap transportation options in Hanoi.

Are you planning a trip to Hanoi? Check out these Hanoi posts to get you started!

• 7 Days in Hanoi: Spend an Adventurous Week in Northern Vietnam
• 29 Best Things to do In Hanoi’s Old Quarter
• 15 Things to do in Hanoi at Night
• Where to Stay in Hanoi: The Best Areas & Hotels
• Is There Uber in Chiang Mai, Thailand

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