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Getting Around Vinh

Getting Around Vinh

Vinh Nghe An Province, Vietnam Travel Guide

Public Transit Overview

Vinh does not have a metro or tram system. Buses the main form of public transportation within the city and to nearby areas.

This network connects various neighborhoods, attractions, and major transport hubs.

Details

  • Bus routes cover main city areas, connecting districts, attractions, and airport.
  • Vinh Bus Station (Bến Xe Vinh) a central point for local and long-distance routes.
  • Fares inexpensive. Pay cash directly to conductor upon boarding.
  • Operate from ~5:30-6:00 AM until 8:00-9:00 PM. Peak hours: every 15-30 minutes.

Accessibility Notes

Public buses in Vinh generally not designed for wheelchair accessibility. Steps and limited space pose challenges for mobility needs.

Efficient Navigation

Confirm bus route/destination with driver/conductor or use Google Maps. Carry small VND banknotes for fares.

Eco-Friendly Travel

Public buses a greener way to move around the city, reducing your carbon footprint.

Bus Routes & Hubs

City Coverage
  • Routes cover main areas of Vinh city.
  • Connects central districts with points of interest.
  • Also links to residential areas and the airport.
Locations
  • Vinh Bus Station (Bến Xe Vinh) a major hub.
  • Central intersections and Ho Chi Minh Square important stops.
  • Specific route maps available on the web or at stops.

Ticketing & Fares

Cash Only

Pay cash directly to the conductor upon boarding the bus.

Single Journey

Single journey tickets standard. No multi-day passes.

Inexpensive

Bus fares are very affordable for local travel.

Small Change

Have small denominations of Vietnamese Dong ready.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis and ride-sharing apps offer convenient and generally safe ways to travel around Vinh, for comfort and pace.

Licensed Taxis

  • Look for Mai Linh (green vehicles) or Vinasun (white vehicles).
  • Metered fares. Ensure driver activates meter.
  • Hail on street, find at stands, or call dispatch.
  • Starting fare ~VND 10,000-15,000 (US$0.4-0.6). Per km: ~VND 12,000-17,000 (US$0.5-0.7).

Ride-Sharing Apps

  • Grab is the most popular app (GrabBike, GrabCar).
  • Fixed fares displayed before you confirm, no negotiation.
  • Gojek also available, similar services.
  • Generally safe due to in-app tracking, driver ratings.

Safety Considerations

  • Reputable, metered taxi companies.
  • Confirm meter running or agree fare in advance.
  • Avoid unofficial touts.
  • Grab safe due to tracking and fixed pricing.
  • Xe Om (motorbike taxi): Negotiate fare beforehand.
  • Wear provided helmet on Xe Om. Keep belongings secure.

Airport/Station Taxis

Airport Pickups

Designated taxi can be found at Vinh International Airport. Employ these or book Grab.

Train Station

Taxis readily available at Vinh Train Station. Look for official vehicles.

Bus Terminal

Taxi services at Vinh Bus Station for reliable transfers to accommodation.

Rental Options

Explore independently with various hire cars.

Car Rental Self-drive

  • Less frequent for tourists due to challenging traffic and legal requirements.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) legally required, with national license.
  • Hiring a car with a local driver safer and more practical.
  • Few international car rental companies operate self-drive services in Vinh.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

  • Widely available from guesthouses, hotels, dedicated shops.
  • Cost: VND 100,000-200,000 (US$4-8) per day for a scooter.
  • Rental shops often ask for passport as deposit. IDP legally required.
  • Helmets mandatory, usually provided. Drive cautiously and defensively.

Local Rentals & Driving

Bicycle Rentals

Some hotels and local shops offer bicycle rentals. Costs around VND 30,000-70,000 (US$1.2-3) per day.

Pleasant for urban discovery.

Cyclos Xích Lô

Three-wheeled bicycle rickshaws for a leisurely, scenic experience over short distances.

Negotiate fare beforehand.

Driving Laws

Drive on the right side of the road. Helmets mandatory for all motorcycle riders/passengers. Traffic rules loosely observed, drive defensively.

Roads generally good.

Walking & Cycling

Pedestrian Areas
  • City center, Ho Chi Minh Square, central park areas offer pleasant walking.
  • Sidewalks can be uneven or obstructed by parked motorbikes/vendors, vigilance.
  • Self-guided walks feasible due to compact center.
Cycling Safety
  • Limited dedicated bicycle lanes. Share roads with motorbikes and cars, requiring extreme caution.
  • Best to cycle in less congested areas, parks, or during off-peak hours.
  • Avoid major highways during peak traffic. Exercise caution in poorly lit areas at night.

Driving Laws & Safety

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Helmets mandatory for all motorcycle riders and passengers.
  • Traffic rules often loosely observed, so drive defensively.
  • Always lock your vehicle when parked.
  • Roads in the city center generally good.
  • Roads outside of town can be less maintained.
  • Designated motorcycle parking areas common. Car parking challenging.
  • Large trucks and buses share roads; vigilance.

Specialized Transportation

Vinh does not feature many specialized tourist transportation systems found in larger cities.

Tour Buses & Services

  • Tour buses and hop-on-hop-off services not available in Vinh.
  • Travelers arrange their own transport for day trips.
  • Hire private vehicles for tours.
  • No specific tourist passes or guided bus routes.

Boat Taxis & Water Transport

  • Limited to fun activities on lakes.
  • Short scenic trips on the Lam River possible.
  • Do not serve as standard city transportation.
  • Not a main mode of transport for visitors.

Other Transport & Accessibility

Unique Transport

Cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems not present in Vinh.

  • Focus on standard ground options.
  • The city is mostly flat.
  • No elevated systems.
Mobility Needs

Accessibility services for travelers with mobility needs very limited in Vinh.

  • City's infrastructure poses challenges.
  • Sidewalks and public transport have limitations.
  • Many properties are not adapted.
City Infrastructure

The city's infrastructure generally poses challenges for those using wheelchairs or with other mobility impairments.

  • Expect steps and irregular ground.
  • Limited ramps or elevators.
  • Plan accordingly.

Additional Transport Advice

Planning
  • Plan your routes in advance.
  • Account for traffic, especially during peak hours.
  • Consider private drivers for comfort.
Safety
  • Always wear a helmet on motorbikes.
  • Be aware of chaotic traffic patterns.
  • Keep your guard up as a person on foot or cyclist.

Navigating Vinh

Utilize a blend of Grab, taxis, and local buses for varied travel experiences within Vinh.

Embrace walking and cycling in less congested areas to discover the city at a slower pace.

Getting Around Vinh. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental