Getting Around Hanoi: A Backpacker’s Guide

Hanoi is a buzzing maze of motorbikes, street vendors, and hidden alleys, and navigating the city is all part of the adventure. To make it easier, here’s a straightforward guide to getting around Hanoi, tailored for backpackers like you.

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Walk Around the Old Quarter

The best way to explore the Old Quarter is simply by foot. You get to wander through narrow alleys, shop at quirky stores, and grab street food along the way. Truly an amazing way to immerse yourself. Just keep an eye on motorbikes—they’ll be everywhere.

Wander the lively streets of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, photo courtesy of Canva

Motorbike Taxis (Xe Ôm)

Motorbike taxis are quick, affordable, and everywhere. You’ll find drivers parked on street corners, ready to take you where you need to go. A reasonable price costs around 10,000-15,000 VND ($0.39-0.59 USD) per kilometer. Agree on the price before getting on the motorbike.

Navigate Hanoi’s hustle with a Xe Ôm ride, photo courtesy of Canva

Ride-Hailing Apps (Grab/Gojek)

For a convenient ride, use Grab and Gojek. They are reliable and easy to use. Need motorbikes? Cars? And even food delivery? They’ve got it all at affordable prices. No cash? No problem—these apps accept e-wallet payments. The cost is around 20,000-50,000 VND ($0.59-2 USD) per ride.

Tap, book, and go with Grab or Gojek for hassle-free rides, photo courtesy of Canva

Rent a Bicycle

If you want to explore the quieter areas like West Lake or Ba Dinh District, renting a bicycle is your best bet. Make sure to avoid peak hours when traffic is chaotic, and stick to areas with less congestion. The cost is around 95,000-150,000 VND per day ($3.70-6 USD). You can rent bikes from hostels or rental shops.

Cycle through Hanoi’s vibrant streets and serene corners, photo courtesy of Thắng Phạm

Cyclo Rides

Want a slower and more traditional way getting around Hanoi? Take a cyclo (a pedal-powered cab). Ideal for short trips around the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. Prepare around 100,000-200,000 VND ($4-8 USD) for an hour. Always agree on the price before starting.

Relax and take in the sights from a cozy cyclo, photo courtesy of Canva

Rent a Motorbike

Confident on two wheels? Renting a motorbike gives you ultimate freedom to explore Hanoi and nearby attractions. Be prepared for chaotic traffic, and always wear a helmet. Rentals cost around 100,000-150,000 VND ($4-6 USD) per day, plus fuel. Pro tip: make sure you have an international driver’s license that covers motorbikes.

Discover hidden corners of Hanoi with a motorbike, photo courtesy of Elliot Andrews

Local Buses

Another cheap way to explore Hanoi is by taking the public buses. They are cheap and cover most of the city’s major areas. They’re a solid option if you’re on a tight budget and want to experience Hanoi like a local. It costs around 7,000-15,000 VND ($0.28-0.59 USD). Pro tip: download the BusMap app for routes and schedules.

Traditional Taxis

Taxis are best for longer distances or group travel. Stick to reputable companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun and ensure the meter is running. The starting fare is 12,000-15,000 VND ($ 0.47-0.59 USD) for the first kilometer.

Wave down a taxi and ride through Hanoi with ease, photo courtesy of Canva

Guided Tours: Hanoi Motorbike/Jeep Tour

For a guided experience, try the Hanoi City Insight Tour, which offers motorbike, Jeep, or vintage Vespa led entirely by Vietnamese women. It’s a unique way to see the city with a local perspective. Enjoy this tour at around 150,000 VND ($59 USD) per person. Book a hassle-free guided tour through here.

Dive into history and culture on a guided Hanoi City Insight Tour, photo courtesy of Mad Monkey

Join a Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour

If you’re a first-timer and want an easy way to see the sights, Hanoi’s hop-on-hop-off buses are a solid option. These double-decker buses hit all the major landmarks and let you explore at your own pace. The cost is around 300,000 VND ($12 USD) for a 4-hour pass. Worry-not because the audio guides are available in multiple languages.

Cruise the city in comfort with Hanoi’s Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour, photo courtesy of OHKSO

Final Tips for Getting Around Hanoi

Avoid rush hours (7:30-9:00 AM and 5:00-7:30 PM) to save time and sanity.
Always carry small bills for transport fares.
Traffic is chaotic—stay alert whether walking, cycling, or riding.

Buckle Up and Start Exploring Hanoi

Now that you know how to get around Hanoi, there’s no excuse to stay stuck in one spot. Grab a map (or your phone) and start exploring this magical city. Whether you’re zipping through on a motorbike, gliding around West Lake, or simply wandering on foot, Hanoi is ready to steal your heart. Happy travels!