Transportation in Hanoi

Hanoi's transport menu is simple but effective: metered taxis and ride-hailing apps (Grab, Gojek, Be) dominate the city, while buses and the new metro line give you cheaper options. Motorbike taxis swarm every corner and are the fastest way through the Old Quarter's gridlock. But only if you're comfortable weaving between buses and cyclos. For short hops inside the historic core, walking still beats sitting in traffic. First-timers should download Grab before landing, it's the only way to avoid the airport taxi touts who quote triple the metered rate. The airport bus is the economy choice, dropping you near the city center. But it fills fast at peak times. Skip the cyclo drivers who quote "city tour" prices; they're a splurge and move at walking speed. When you do take a regular taxi, insist on the meter or book through an app to lock in the fare. Quick airport tip: the official taxi rank outside arrivals uses metered cabs, ignore anyone inside the terminal offering rides. If you're arriving late, ride-hailing apps still work but expect longer waits. The bus service typically runs until around the last flight.