In a country boasting over 70 million registered motorbikes, the roads are but ordinary. In bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, motorbikes dominate the streets, with nearly 80% of households owning one. But transport here is far more than just two-wheeled bikes.

This is a country where you’ll find yourself weaving through streets on cyclo-rickshaws, cozying up in trains chugging through lush landscapes, or staring out the window of a neon-lit metro whisking you through city centers. While you won’t find the sterile efficiency of some Western public transport systems, what you will discover is a heart and soul that adds meaning to your stay in the country.

In our previous blogs in this series, we covered our review of Vietnam Airlines, an arrival guide to Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport, and a beginner's guide to exploring Vietnam.

Get your visa Vietnamese visa on-time with atlys!

1. Exploring Vietnam by Bus

Navigating Vietnam's City Buses

If you're a first-timer, you’ll quickly realize that city buses in Vietnam might be chaotic, but also oddly efficient. What you’re most likely to have trouble with is the routes and maps, so let’s get that cleared up first:

• Google Maps works for most major cities, but local apps like BusMap are more reliable when it comes to accurate timings and live tracking. Download it—seriously.

• Many bus stops have maps, but they're often only in Vietnamese. Time to put your translation app to good use!

Pro Tip: Mark your bus stop on Google Maps so you don't miss it, especially if the bus driver doesn't announce stops (which is common). Or, just show the driver your destination written in Vietnamese.

Here's how you can get your Vietnamese visa sorted quick and easy with atlys.

Now let's dive into the nuances of Vietnam’s bus routes:

Hanoi's City Buses

With over 60 routes, these buses are your budget-friendly gateway to explore Vietnam. The buses are as packed with character as they are with people. Here’s a lowdown on the three key routes you’re most likely to need:

• Route 01: Connects Hoan Kiem Lake with Nguyen Cong Tru, taking you through the charming Old Quarter—a must-see for any newbie.

• Route 86: This route will be your go-to if you’re coming from the airport. It goes straight from Noi Bai Airport to Hoan Kiem Lake—super convenient if you want to get to the city center without having to haggle with taxi drivers.

• Route 09 is another Old Quarter gem, perfect for seeing the city’s historical core.

The most important stops include Kim Ma Bus Station (a hub for intercity and long-distance routes) and Long Bien Station (a short walk from the Old Quarter). 

Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) Buses

HCMC boasts over 100 routes—pretty much an adventure on wheels. If traffic is a serious dealbreaker for you, we recommend you take a motorbike ride or wait for HCMC’s metro to open up later in 2024.

Here are four of the most popular routes of HCMC’s bus transit system:

• Route 01: From Bến Thành Market to Suối Tiên Amusement Park, this route covers a lot of tourist ground and is great for a full-day outing.

• Route 20: For a taste of the real Saigon, take this route to explore Chợ Lớn Market in District 5—full of local color and great bargains.

• Route 150: For those who want to go the distance (literally), this connects District 1 to the far reaches of District 9. It’s long but scenic.

• Route 152 is another airport connection, taking you from Tan Son Nhat Airport to District 1 for a mere fraction of what a cab will cost.

Key stops include Ben Thanh Station (it's your go-to connecting hub for almost every important bus route), and Mien Dong Bus Station, where you catch long-distance buses—ideal if you’re planning to bolt out of the city to explore Vietnam's beach towns.

Long-Distance Inter-City Buses

If you're planning to explore more of Vietnam, long-distance buses are your go-to. These buses can be comfy and affordable, with sleeper buses offering reclining beds and air conditioning for overnight trips.

Key Routes:

• Hanoi to Ha Long Bay: A must if you're heading out to see the famous limestone karsts. The ride takes about 3.5 to 4 hours and costs between 200,000 to 300,000 VND ($8-13 USD).

• HCMC to Nha Trang: The sleeper bus here makes the 9-10 hour journey bearable. Prices range from 350,000 to 600,000 VND ($15-26 USD), depending on how fancy the bus is.

Pro Tip: Not all sleeper buses are created equal. Some offer real comfort; others might make you wish you’d splurged on a flight instead.

Timing — Bus Hours & Frequency

• Most buses in Vietnam’s big cities run from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, though some call it quits earlier (and with no warning). Best to check individual routes if you’re up early or out late.

• Expect buses every 10-20 minutes on popular routes during the day. But during rush hour, which lasts from roughly 7:30 AM to 9:00 AM and again from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM, traffic can get painfully slow.

Pro Tip: If you're in a hurry, buses probably aren’t your best bet during peak hours. Consider hopping on a motorbike taxi instead.

Comfort Levels & Facilities

• Cheap and affordable as they are, Vietnam’s city buses offer basic comforts and usually aren’t air-conditioned. The windows are wide and airy, and can be a relief on hot days, (as long as you don’t mind some bus fumes.)

• AC buses: A handful of routes in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City now boast air-conditioned buses. These are your golden tickets to avoid sweating off half your body weight.

• For longer journeys on sleeper buses, expect more luxurious touches like reclining seats, WiFi, and occasionally, some light refreshments.

Prices

• City Bus Prices: Fares range from 7,000 VND to 15,000 VND (30-65 cents USD) depending on the route and the city. For Express buses, you may need to shell out a bit more, but the comfort level usually justifies it.

• Hanoi to Ha Long Bay (Long Distance): Expect to pay between 200,000 VND to 300,000 VND ($8-13 USD) for the 3.5-hour ride.

• HCMC to Nha Trang (Long Distance): This longer ride will set you back 350,000 VND to 600,000 VND ($15-26 USD), with sleeper buses making the trip a little more tolerable.

Payment

• Cash only, folks. Have small bills at the ready—city bus drivers usually don’t have change for large denominations.

• For frequent travellers, bus cards are available in some cities (like Ho Chi Minh City). They're reloadable at convenience stores or bus terminals.

• Many buses now accept cashless payments through bank cards and e-wallets. This means you can use a Mastercard virtual card via the Ting e-wallet to pay for your fare without needing to carry cash.

How to Use the TING E-Wallet as a Tourist in Vietnam

Using the TING e-wallet can make your travel experience in Vietnam smoother, especially when you want to avoid the hassle of cash. Here’s a simple guide for tourists:

1. Download the App: Start by downloading the TING app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

2. Register an Account: Open the app and create an account. You'll need to provide basic information like your phone number and email. You may receive a verification code to confirm your account.

3. Top Up Your E-Wallet: As a tourist without a Vietnamese bank account, you can add funds to your TING wallet in several ways:

• Prepaid Cards: Buy prepaid cards at convenience stores or supermarkets. Look for stores like VinMart or Circle K, which often sell them.

• Cash Deposits: Visit authorized merchants or kiosks where you can deposit cash directly into your TING wallet. Simply show them your app, and they’ll guide you through the process.

• Foreign Card Linking: Check if TING allows you to link your international credit or debit card. This option may vary, so look for that feature in the app.

4. Using TING for Payments: Once you have funds in your wallet, you can use TING for various transactions:

• Shopping: Many stores, restaurants, and markets accept TING payments. Just scan the QR code at the checkout.

• Transport: Pay for rides with ride-hailing apps like Grab, which often integrates with e-wallets.

• Food Delivery: Order food from delivery apps that accept TING, making it easier to enjoy local cuisine.

5. Customer Support: If you run into any issues, TING has customer support available within the app to help you out.

While TING offers convenience, remember to carry some cash as well for small purchases, especially in places that may not accept digital payments.

Safety First — How to Survive (and Enjoy) the Ride

1. Beware of Pickpockets: Keep your belongings close, especially on crowded buses. Bags worn on the front are harder for pickpockets to access.

2. Traffic: Vietnam’s traffic is the stuff of legends, especially in big cities. That charming chaos you see on the streets extends to the bus system too. Be prepared for sudden stops, quick starts, and some bumpy rides.

3. Rush Hour Avoidance: Trust me, you'll want to avoid buses during rush hour. It's not just crowded; it’s claustrophobic, and you might find yourself standing for the entire ride—if you can even squeeze in. Plan your travel outside of peak times (7:30 AM - 9:00 AM and 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM).

4. Language Barriers: Most bus drivers won’t speak English, so it’s helpful to have your destination written down in Vietnamese. Or ask a local—they’re usually happy to help if you look lost.

2. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Apps

1. Hailing Taxis on the Street: The Classic (But Tricky) Option

Flagging down a traditional taxi in Vietnam is about as easy as spotting a street vendor selling bánh mì—there’s always one around the corner. But before you dive into the taxi game, here's what you need to know.

The Golden Rule: No Meter, No Ride

You’ll find taxis aplenty, but make sure you hop into a metered taxi to avoid "tourist pricing." If the driver gives you a suspicious grin and doesn't turn on the meter when you start, you’re about to get overcharged. A friendly reminder should do the trick—just ask them to turn it on, or prepare to hop out.

Reliable Taxi Brands:

Stick to well-known, reputable brands like:

• Taxi Group: Dominating Vietnam’s (and especially Hanoi’s) taxi scene, these cabs are as dependable as they come.

• Vinasun: You’ll see their white-and-green cars all over Ho Chi Minh City.

• Mekong: Another solid choice with meters that work.

Pricing:

Fares typically start around 11,000 VND (roughly 50 cents) just for hopping in, and from there, you’re looking at about 15,000 to 20,000 VND per kilometer (roughly 65-87 cents), depending on the city and time of day.

Pro Tip: Nighttime rides or airport pickups might carry an extra fee, so don’t be surprised if the meter ticks up faster after dark.

2. Motorbike Taxis (Xe Ôm): For the Adventurous Soul

If you’ve ever wanted to experience the sheer chaos of Vietnamese traffic, but with the wind in your hair, then a xe ôm is calling your name. These rides are quicker, cheaper, and provide a firsthand view of the traffic you’ll live to laugh about.

Fares:

Motorbike taxi fares are negotiable. For short trips, you’ll start at around 10,000 VND (about 43 cents), but always, always agree on the price before you jump on.

• A typical short ride (1-2 km) will cost around 30,000 VND ($1.30), but haggling is the name of the game. Flash a smile, act confident, and don’t settle for the first price they quote.

Pro Tip: If you're really not into negotiation, download a ride-hailing app instead. They’ll give you a fixed price so you can avoid awkward bargaining at every stoplight.

Helmet On: If you’re going for the motorbike taxi experience, don’t ride without a helmet. Most drivers will provide one, but if not, it's a red flag. Helmets are non-negotiable for safety.

3. Ride-Hailing Apps: The Digital Lifeline

If flagging down a taxi or haggling with a xe ôm driver isn't your cup of tea, check out Vietnam's ride-hailing apps. Just tap your screen, and a ride will appear at your desired location—no need to haggle, and you can track your journey like a boss.

Grab:

The Uber of Vietnam, and your one-stop shop for all things transportation (plus food delivery, if you get peckish). Whether you need a car or motorbike, Grab’s got you covered.

• Fares: They start around 20,000 VND (about 87 cents) for short rides, but beware of surge pricing. If it’s rush hour or raining, you might end up paying more than you'd planned.

Gojek:

Originally from Indonesia, Gojek is Vietnam's competitive (and often cheaper) alternative to Grab. Offering similar services to Grab, it's a great option for affordable rides, deliveries, and unfortunately, the occasional dose of frustration when the app's map doesn’t align with reality.

Be:

A homegrown competitor that’s making waves. Be offers a variety of services, including cars and motorbike taxis, with fares that can be lower than Grab, depending on the time of day. Plus, supporting local always feels good.

4. Payment Methods: Cash Is King, But Card Works Too

Most traditional taxis still prefer good ol' cash (small bills work best), but the beauty of ride-hailing apps is that they let you pay by card—though having some cash on hand is always smart, especially for motorbike taxis.

Pro Tip: Even when using apps like Grab or Gojek, I recommend keeping some emergency cash for those random moments when your app payment fails, or your phone decides to die just when you need it most.

3. Cyclos: Vietnam’s Laid-Back, Pedal-Powered Time Machines

If you want to slow things down, channel your inner vintage explorer, and take a trip on a cyclo—Vietnam’s iconic bicycle rickshaw. These charming three-wheelers are an experience in their own right, offering a leisurely way to see Vietnam’s bustling streets without the stress of dodging motorbikes yourself.

What’s a Cyclo?

In the most basic way possible, it’s a chair bolted to a pedal-bike. The cyclist sits behind you, pedaling away while you enjoy the sights at a leisurely, camera-ready pace. It’s slow, it’s nostalgic, and honestly, kind of fun in a retro way.

How to Score a Cyclo Ride:

It’s as easy as waving your hand! You’ll find these pedicabs parked near major tourist spots or leisurely pedaling through popular streets. Just flag one down and tell them where you want to go. But here’s the trick: negotiate your fare upfront—cyclo drivers know tourists are ripe for the picking (or overcharging, in this case).

Costs: What You’ll Pay (Or What You Should Pay)

Ah, the million-VND question. How much for a ride?

• Short Rides (15-30 minutes): Expect to shell out around 30,000 to 50,000 VND ($1.30 to $2.20 USD). For a fun, quick jaunt around a few blocks or a market, this is a great option.

• Longer Rides or Guided Tours: If you want to kick back for an hour or go on a mini sightseeing adventure, you’ll be looking at somewhere between 100,000 to 200,000 VND ($4.50 to $9 USD), depending on the distance and duration.

Pro Tip: Always, always, negotiate before getting in. Cyclo drivers are seasoned hagglers, and the starting rate they quote might sound more like a joke than a fair price. Politely bargain them down to something reasonable, and you’re good to go.

Cyclo Comfort (Or Lack Thereof)

Let's be honest: cyclos aren’t luxury sedans. You’re riding on a fairly basic seat with open-air vibes. They’re perfect for short rides to take in the scenery, but don't expect plush cushions or a smooth glide over the streets. There will be bumps. There will be sways.

Pro Tip: Dress for the weather. Vietnam’s sun can be intense and many cyclos have barely covering roofs, so protect yourself with a hat, sunscreen, and maybe some shades to stay cool and avoid that "crispy tourist" look.

Popular Routes & Itineraries: Where to Go in Style

Looking for some classic cyclo routes? Some scenic journeys to try:

• Hanoi: Start at Hoan Kiem Lake and let your cyclo driver take you through the narrow lanes of the Old Quarter. Perfect for people-watching and soaking up the historic atmosphere.

• Ho Chi Minh City: Try a cyclo ride around Ben Thanh Market and over to Notre Dame Cathedral for a taste of French colonial architecture.

• Hue: Glide past the Imperial City or along the Perfume River for a more romantic, laid-back experience.

Pro Tip

Safety & Practical Tips

1. Hold On Tight: Though you’re not moving at breakneck speeds, Vietnam’s traffic can be chaotic. Be sure to keep your belongings close and hold onto your seat during sharp turns.

2. Pickpocket Awareness: Cyclo rides expose you to the open streets, which also makes you more visible to opportunistic pickpockets. Keep your phone, wallet, and bag secure.

3. Fare Agreement: One more time, for the people in the back: negotiate your fare before the ride starts. This is the #1 rule of cyclo travel, and it’ll save you from post-ride pricing drama.

4. Tips Are Welcome: If your cyclo driver goes above and beyond, whether with an informative tour or just exceptional friendliness, don’t be shy to tip them. A little generosity goes a long way.

The Verdict: To Cyclo or Not to Cyclo?

For a budget-friendly, leisurely, and quirky ride through Vietnam’s bustling streets, cyclos are a fantastic option—especially if you’re keen on exploring in a more relaxed, old-school way. Sure, they’re slower than motorbikes or taxis, but that’s the point. 

Sometimes, it’s nice to slow down, take in the scenery, and pretend you’re in a vintage travel movie.

4. A Comprehensive Guide to Vietnam’s Railway & Metro Transit Systems

1. Long-Distance Train Travel: A Journey Through Vietnam’s Heart

Perfect to view the lush green landscapes of Vietnam unfurl outside your window from your comfy seats and sleeper berths. You can kick back, relax, and have great interactions with locals and fellow adventurers alike.

Key Routes: The Train Trails

• Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City: Enter the Reunification Express, a 1,726-kilometer (1,070-mile) marathon that takes a hearty 30-36 hours.Bring snacks, load up some podcasts, and prepare to bond with your seatmate over the joys of instant noodles.

• Hanoi to Sapa: Ready for a mountain escape? This scenic train journey to Lao Cai takes about 8 hours, followed by a bus ride to Sapa. Think of it as an appetizer for the breathtaking views to come!

• Da Nang to Hue: A short 2-3 hour ride that will make your camera weep with joy. Expect coastal views and mountains that scream, “Look at me!”—the perfect choice for a quick day trip that promises Instagram-worthy shots.

Seat Options & Pricing

• Hard Seats: Approximately 150,000 - 300,000 VND ($6 - $13).

• Soft Seats: Range from 300,000 - 600,000 VND ($13 - $26).

• Sleeper Berths: Prices vary from 500,000 - 1,200,000 VND ($22 - $52) 

Booking Tickets

• Online: To skip the station chaos, use sites like Vietnam Railways or 12Go Asia to book your tickets. Easy as ordering takeout.

• At the Station: Remember that English may not be spoken by some ticket agents. So, a translation app or some handy Vietnamese phrases can come in handy.

2. Local Train Travel

Scenic Routes

• Hanoi to Ninh Binh: A delightful 2-hour ride drops you at the entrance to stunning natural sights like Tam Coc and Trang An. Bring your camera, you’ll thank yourself.

• Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau: Feeling beachy? This 2.5-hour coastal train ride takes you to Vung Tau, where sun and seafood await.

Pricing for Local Trains
Local train fares are refreshingly affordable, ranging from 50,000 - 200,000 VND ($2 - $8) depending on distance and seat class.

3. Metro Systems (Albeit, limited)

Current Metro Options

• Hanoi Metro: The shiny Line 2A (Cat Linh – Ha Dong) is up and running, connecting key urban areas. Fares range from 7,000 - 15,000 VND (30-65 cents)—a steal for urban exploration that your wallet will thank you for.

• Ho Chi Minh City Metro: Currently still in construction mode, but keep your eyes peeled for its debut in late 2024.

Buying Tickets

• Metro Stations: Grab your ticket from vending machines or ticket counters. 

Pro tip: use a contactless card to save time. If you get lost, just ask the station staff; they usually speak decent English, and no one can resist a friendly traveler!

4. Travel Tips: Making the Most of Your Journey

• Check Schedules: Always double-check train schedules—better safe than sorry, especially if you want to avoid an unexpected overnight adventure at the station.

• Arrive Early: Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes early. This way, you’ll have time to find your platform, grab a snack, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Safety and Comfort

• Keep Your Belongings Secure: Crowded stations can attract pickpockets like moths to a flame. Use a money belt or keep your valuables close.

• Snacks and Water: Pack your own snacks, especially for longer journeys. Sometimes you get lucky with train food, other times, you end up with a mystery meat sandwich.

Cultural Insights

• Engage with Locals: Chatting with fellow travelers is a great way to discover tips and secrets about your destination. Plus, you might just make a new friend or find the best hidden food stall in town!

• Respect Fellow Travelers: Space is limited in sleeper compartments, so be courteous and consider others around you. Everyone deserves a peaceful journey—even if it means curbing your enthusiasm for armrest domination!

5. Useful Apps: Your Travel Companions

• Vietnam Railways App: Your digital best friend for checking train schedules and booking tickets on the go.

• Grab: This handy app will whisk you away to and from train and metro stations. 

• Google Maps: A must-have for navigating metro systems and finding train stations.

Expect The Unexpected As You Embark On Your Journey

Maybe you’ll find yourself sharing a laugh with a local on a crowded bus or discovering a hidden gem of a restaurant during a leisurely cyclo ride. Travel in Vietnam is as much about the journey as it is about the destination.

Allow the spontaneity of travel to guide you. A wrong turn might lead you to a lively street festival, a charming café, or a scenic spot that’s not in any guidebook. Take a moment to soak it all in.

Hop on that bus, grab your train ticket, and let the magic of Vietnam unfold before you.