MileHacker Logo
Getting Around Vung Tau

Getting Around Vung Tau

Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam Travel Guide

Public Transportation: Local Buses

Vung Tau relies mainly on public buses for public transportation. Unsuch as larger cities, Vung Tau does not have a metro or tram system. The bus the network joins areas city-wide, providing a budget-friendly option for getting to different attractions and neighborhoods.

Bus routes connect popular areas, including the main beaches (Front Beach and Back Beach), the hydrofoil terminal, and major roads leading in and out of the city center. Ask your hotel staff for advice on the best directions to your desired destinations.

Bus Details

  • Ticketing: Pay cash directly to conductor. Fares 7,000-15,000 VND.
  • Hours: Generally 5:A.M. TO 9:00 PM.
  • Frequency: 15-30 minutes, varying by route and time of day.
  • Accessibility: Buses are generally not wheelchair accessible.

Use Google Maps

Offers real-time bus information in some areas.

Ask Locals for Advice

The hotel employees or locals help with routes and numbers.

Be Patient

Buses might not always run exactly on schedule.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Licensed Taxis
  • Reputable companies: Mai Linh (green cars) and Vinasun (white cars).
  • Always ensure driver uses the meter. Fares start ~10,000-12,000 VND + ~15,000-18,000 VND/km.
  • Cash is the most common payment.
Ride-Sharing Apps
  • Grab is dominant for vehicles and motorbikes; set prices in app.
  • "Be" is another local ride-hailing app, offers competitive prices.
  • Verify driver and vehicle details match the app before getting on.

Rental Options

Car Rentals

Rare for tourists; often with a driver.

Scooter Rentals

Widely available; ~100,000-150,1/day.

Bicycle Rentals

Available at some hotels/guesthouses.

Cyclos Pedicabs

For short, scenic trips; agree price beforehand.

Walking & Cycling in Vung Tau

Vung Tau offers pleasant areas for walking, especially along its scenic promenade.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Front Beach Promenade: Scenic views, pleasant for ambling.
  • Christ the King Statue plus Airyhouse areas: Walking paths with stunning views.
  • City Center: Some parts are walkable, but sidewalks are uneven or obstructed.
  • Self-guided walking is common; organized tours are not as prevalent.

Cycling & Road Conditions

  • Bicycle Infrastructure: A small number of dedicated cycle paths.
  • Road Sharing: Cyclists share roads with motorbikes and cars.
  • Safety: Ride defensively, use hand signals, wear a helmet (mandatory for motorbikes).
  • No-Go Areas: No specific "no-go" areas; caution on busy main roads.

Driving Laws & Parking

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Helmets are mandatory for all motorcycle riders and passengers.
  • Speed limits exist but are often loosely followed by locals.
  • Main roads in A Coastal city near ho chi minh city are paved and generally in good condition.
  • Expect heavy motorbike traffic; navigating may be challenging for unfamiliar drivers.
  • Designated parking areas for motorbikes often have a nominal charge.

Specialized Transportation

Cable Car

Runs up Nui Lon to Ho May Park, offering panoramic views.

Boat Taxis

No regular services within Vung Tau; speedboat tours from mainland ports further south.

Accessibility

Limited services; taxis or private cars are most feasible for mobility needs.

Further Transportation Considerations

Vietnam-Wide Travel

  • Train connections: No direct train to A Coastal city near ho chi minh city. Nearest station is Saigon Rail Depot in HCMC.
  • Bus travel: Extensive network across Vietnam for inter-city travel.
  • Domestic flights: Connect major cities via SGN.
  • Always consider travel time between different transportation centers.

Practical Transit Tips

  • Purchase tickets ahead of time for hydrofoils and popular bus routes, especially during peak season.
  • Have small denominations of VND ready for bus fares and small payments.
  • Confirm departure times and locations the day before.
  • Keep your belongings secure on all forms of transport.

Accessibility Considerations

Public Transport Limitations

Public buses typically don't offer wheelchair access.

Plan alternative transport.

Infrastructure Challenges

Sidewalks are often uneven, narrow, or obstructed.

Be cautious when walking.

Recommended Mobility Options

Taxis or private cars with operators are most feasible.

Arrange with hotels/tour operators.

Road Safety & Local Driving Style

Navigating Traffic
  • Motorbikes are extremely prevalent and often disregard traffic rules.
  • Defensive driving is important if you choose to drive a rental.
  • As a pedestrian, cross roads cautiously and predict vehicle movements.
General Awareness
  • Remain alert and aware of your surroundings on all roads.
  • Expect frequent horn usage, often used as a warning, not aggression.
  • Traffic signals are sometimes treated as suggestions rather than strict rules.

Important Driving Reminders

  • Driving without a proper license (IDP) voids your travel insurance policy for accidents.
  • Violations can lead to fines and legal issues.
  • Helmets are mandatory for motorcyclists and passengers.
  • Traffic police presence exists; obey all laws.
  • Only rent a motorbike if you are a knowledgeable rider comfortable with busy Asian traffic.
  • Consider Grab or taking a taxi for ease and safety if unsure.
  • Avoid unmarked taxis or unofficial drivers.
  • Driving yourself is not as common for visitors in Vietnam.

Specialized Transportation: Cable Car

A distinguished specialized transport option in Vung Tau is the ropeway service.

Cable Car Route

  • The cable car runs up Nui Lon (Big Mountain).
  • It leads to Ho May Park, an theme park on the mountain top.
  • The ride itself offers panoramic views of the city and shoreline.
  • It serves as both transport and an attraction for scenic photos.

Additional Transport

  • Tour Buses: Not common; most tours are private car/motorbike-based.
  • Boat Taxis: No regular facilities inside A Coastal city near ho chi minh city city.
  • Accessibility Services: Generally limited; taxis/personal vehicles for mobility needs.
  • Careful planning with hotels/tour operators for suitable arrangements.

Nui Lon Mountain

The destination for A Coastal city near ho chi minh city's cable car adventure.

Ho May Park

An amusement park at the aerial tramway's summit.

Scenic Views

The aerial tramway ride itself offers breathtaking city and coastal panoramas.

Getting Around Summary

Best for Budget
  • Local Buses: Most economical, but requires understanding routes.
  • Walking: Free, great for exploring pedestrian-friendly areas like promenades.
  • Bicycle Rentals: A pleasant, slow-paced way to see the city.
Best for Convenience
  • Taxis: Readily available and comfortable for direct routes.
  • Ride-Sharing (Grab/Be): Set prices and easy booking via app.
  • Scooter Rentals: Independence, but requires experience with local traffic.

Final Navigation Tip

Before embarking on any journey in A Coastal city near ho chi minh city, a quick confirm at your hotel reception or Google Maps can save time and effort.

They provide the most current information on routes, schedules, and local transport conditions.