Grab, taxis and airport transfers in Vietnam
Updated 1 November 2026 · 4 min read
In short
In cities, use a ride-hailing app: Grab is the most widespread, while Be and Xanh SM (electric taxis and bikes) are good alternatives. The price is fixed before you get in, which avoids most scams. For a regular taxi, choose Mai Linh or Vinasun and insist on the meter.
The apps to install
| App | What it offers | Good to know |
|---|---|---|
| Grab | Car, motorbike taxi, food delivery | Most widespread, card payment possible |
| Be | Car and motorbike taxi | Vietnamese app, often a little cheaper |
| Xanh SM | Electric taxis and motorbikes | Recent fleet, recognisable green cars |
Install them before you leave and save your card in Grab so you are not hunting for change. With an eSIM, they work as soon as you land.
From the airport
- Hanoi (Noi Bai): allow about 45 minutes to 1 hour to the Old Quarter depending on traffic. Grab and Xanh SM have signed pick-up points; express bus 86 also links the airport to the centre.
- Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat): the airport is in the city, about 30-45 minutes from District 1. Bus 109 goes to Ben Thanh Market.
- Da Nang: the airport is in the city, 10-15 minutes from the beaches and about 45 minutes from Hoi An.
Ignore touts in the arrivals hall: book in the app or go to the official taxi queue.
Regular taxis, cyclos and private transfers
- Taxis: favour Mai Linh and Vinasun, and check the meter starts. Beware of cars with logos imitating these brands.
- Cyclo: pleasant for a ride, but agree the total price, per person or for everyone, before you get in.
- Private transfer: handy after a night flight or with family and luggage, bookable in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Does Grab work in Vietnam?
Yes, in all the big cities and tourist areas: Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hoi An, Hue, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc. Be and Xanh SM are good alternatives.
How do you get from Hanoi airport to the Old Quarter?
By Grab or Xanh SM from the signed pick-up points (about 45 minutes to 1 hour), or by express bus 86, cheaper but slower.
How do you avoid taxi scams in Vietnam?
Use an app where the price is fixed before departure. Otherwise, take a Mai Linh or Vinasun taxi and check the meter is running.