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Getting Around Haiphong

Getting Around Haiphong

Hai Phong Vietnam Travel Guide

Public Bus System

Haiphong city relies primarily on its public bus network. This method connects different parts of the city, including major attractions, residential areas, and bus stations.

Bus stop signs often display route numbers and destinations.

Bus Information

  • Hubs are close to popular markets (like Cho Sat) and main bus stations (Lac Long, Niem Nghia).
  • A flat fare for each ride is common and very inexpensive (VND 7,000 - 15,000).
  • Pay cash directly to the conductor upon boarding.
  • Buses generally run from early morning (around 5:30 AM) until late evening (around 9:00 PM).

Route Coverage

A network of local bus routes connects various parts of the city effectively.

Cost-Effective Fares

Fares are low, making public buses an economical travel choice.

Accessibility Notes

Public buses usually do not offer wheelchair accessibility, with steps at entrances and often crowded interiors.

Efficient Bus Use

Navigation Aids
  • Google Maps helps identify routes and approximate stops (download offline maps).
  • Do not hesitate to ask bus taxi drivers or fellow passengers for help.
  • Have small VND denominations ready for bus fares.
Safety and Awareness
  • Buses can become crowded, especially during peak hours.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and keep belongings secure.
  • Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas.

Taxi & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis

Identified by color (white, yellow, green) and company names like Mai Linh. They use meters.

Hailing

Hail on the street, find at stands, or book by phone. Always confirm meter use or agree on price.

Typical Fares

Starting around VND 10,000-15,000. Subsequent rates VND 10,000-18,000 per kilometer.

Grab App

The dominant ride-sharing app; offers GrabCar, GrabBike, GrabExpress, and GrabFood. Widely available in Haiphong.

Rental Options

For personal transport, Haiphong has choices for renting cars, motorbikes, and bicycles. Understand the requirements and safety warnings.

Car Rental

  • Self-driving is lawfully challenging for tourists without a Vietnamese license.
  • An International Driving Permit (IDP) with a Vietnamese license might be needed.
  • Renting a private car with a driver is common and highly advised for longer distances.
  • Local travel agencies can arrange car rentals with vehicle pilots.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

  • Readily available from guesthouses and rental shops in Haiphong and The Pearl Island of the tonkin gulf.
  • Cost: VND 100,000 - 180,000 per day.
  • Helmets are mandatory. Inspect the bike carefully before renting (brakes, lights, tires).
  • Riding is at your own risk concerning insurance and legal issues if licenses are not fully valid.

Bicycle Rentals

  • Certain guesthouses or dedicated shops offer bicycles for rent.
  • This is beneficial for exploring The Pearl Island of the tonkin gulf, especially the national park or roads along the coast.
  • Cost: VND 50,000 - 100,000 per day.
  • Haiphong city has limited dedicated bicycle lanes.
  • Always wear a helmet and be visible, especially in metropolitan traffic.
  • Cycling is more feasible in more peaceful areas or within Cat Ba National Park.

Driving Laws & Conditions

Driving Laws

Drive on the right-right-hand side of the road. Helmets are mandatory for motorbikes. Speed limits are often ignored.

Road Conditions

Conditions vary. Main roads are paved. Expect heavy motorbike traffic, unpredictable maneuvers, plus common horn usage.

Parking Information

Designated parking areas are available for motorbikes (usually for a nominal charge) and cars, especially near attractions and commercial centers.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, Haiphong and its vicinity feature unique ways to travel, especially for exploring the bay and its islands.

Water-Based Transport

  • Vessels are needed for exploring Lan Ha Bay. Day tours from Đảo Cát Bà include boat transport.
  • You can hire local small boats for shorter transfers around Đảo Cát Bà.
  • Limited tourist boat on the river services exist within Haiphong city.
  • Ferries go between Cat Ba Island from Pha Got and Ben Binh terminals.

Unique Local Charms

  • Cyclo (Pedicab): Traditional three-wheeled bicycle taxis for leisurely rides. Agree on price.
  • Cat Ba Cable Car: Connects Cat Ba Town with Phù Long Commune, offering scenic views.
  • Tour buses mainly transport groups for regional tours; no tourist bus-on-hop-off services in Haiphong.
  • Accessibility for travelers with mobility necessities is generally limited in Vietnam.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Areas

Regions near Tam Bac Lake, Haiphong Performance Hall, and tree-lined boulevards are pleasant for walking.

Cat Ba Town is very walkable, especially along the waterfront and to nearby beaches.

Cycling Insights

Haiphong city has limited lanes for bicycles. Cycling is more feasible on Cat Ba Island.

Always wear a helmet and be visible, especially in metropolitan traffic.

Safety Notes

Sidewalks can be uneven or used for finding a parking spot. Be aware of traffic, notably motorbikes.

Stay off of when walking or cycling major highways outside the city. Use extreme caution in dense traffic, especially intersections.

Safety Considerations

Taxi and Grab Safety
  • Use reputable, metered taxi companies.
  • Be careful about unmetered taxis or inflated non-negotiable prices.
  • Grab is generally safer due to GPS tracking, driver ID, and cashless payments.
General Traffic Awareness
  • Motorbike accidents occur frequently; exercise caution.
  • Be aware of unpredictable road users and reckless driving.
  • Traffic is dense, especially during peak hours.

Important Warnings

  • Foreigners generally cannot legally drive a private car without a Vietnamese license.
  • Accident rates are high; self-using a car is not advised for inexperienced drivers.
  • Road quality changes significantly.
  • Be aware of common scams like inflated taxi fares or overcharging at markets.
  • Petty crime like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
  • Typhoons and tropical storms from The month of july to October cause travel delays.
  • Heavy rains, especially during the season for typhoons, lead to localized urban flooding.
  • Traffic laws are often ignored, leading to unpredictable situations.

Final Transit Note

While public transport is predominantly buses, a variety of taxis, ride-shares, and rental options make navigating Haiphong quite flexible.

Consider combining different modes for the most efficient and enjoyable exploration of the city and its surroundings.