If you’re backpacking Vietnam, chances are you’ve used Grab in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City and loved how easy (and cheap) it is. So naturally, you might be wondering: “Is there Grab in Ninh Binh?”
This guide breaks down exactly when Grab works, when it doesn’t and what budget-friendly alternatives backpackers can use to get around Ninh Binh smoothly. Let’s make sure you’re navigating Ninh Binh like a local pro, even on a tight budget.
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Is there a Grab in Ninh Binh in 2025?
Yes, there is Grab in Ninh Binh – but it’s mostly useful around Ninh Binh City, Tam Coc and Trang An. Don’t rely on it 100%, especially late at night or in remote spots.
GrabCar offers on-demand car rides, suitable for individuals or groups. GrabBike provides motorcycle taxi services, which are often quicker for navigating shorter distances, especially for solo travelers.
Availability can fluctuate based on the time of day and specific location. During peak tourist seasons or busy hours, finding a Grab driver might be easier. Conversely, late at night or in more remote areas, driver availability can be limited.
Backpacker TL;DR – Getting around Ninh Binh
- Best option for most backpackers: Rent a motorbike (100,000-150,000 VND/day) if you’re confident driving. It offers ultimate freedom and is super cheap.
- Taxis & Xe Om are easy to find at the train/bus station and around tourist areas. Always agree on the price before you start the ride, or insist on the meter for taxis.
- Short distances in Tam Coc: Bicycle or walking is often enough and very scenic. Many homestays offer free bikes!
- Backup Plan: Always keep the number of your homestay driver or a trusted local taxi as a backup if Grab isn’t available.
User experiences and practical considerations
While Grab is officially present, user experiences often vary. Some travelers report readily finding Grab vehicles, especially in central locations during the day. Others have noted longer wait times or fewer drivers available, particularly outside the main tourist zones.
This variability is common in provinces where ride-hailing services are newer or less saturated. It means that while you can rely on Grab, having backup transportation options is a wise strategy. Checking the app for real-time driver availability before you need a ride can save time and potential frustration.
Example Prices (Approximate):
- Ninh Binh train station → Tam Coc: Expect to pay around 100,000-150,000 VND for a taxi, or 70,000-100,000 VND for a GrabCar (if available). A GrabBike might be 30,000-50,000 VND.
- Tam Coc → Trang An: A xe om might cost 40,000-60,000 VND, while a taxi/GrabCar would be around 80,000-120,000 VND.
- Tam Coc → Mua Cave: Very short ride, a xe om should be 20,000-30,000 VND.
Why Grab might feel limited in Ninh Binh
Despite its official launch, the perception that Grab is limited in Ninh Binh is not uncommon. Several factors contribute to this experience for travelers.
Lower population density and tourism seasonality
Ninh Binh, while a popular tourist destination, has a significantly lower population density compared to metropolitan areas like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. This translates to a smaller pool of potential Grab drivers and, consequently, fewer active vehicles on the road at any given time.
Tourism in Ninh Binh is also seasonal. During off-peak months, the demand for ride-hailing services decreases, which can further reduce the number of active Grab drivers. Drivers may relocate to busier cities or engage in other forms of work during quieter periods.
Strong local transportation network
Ninh Binh has a well-established traditional transportation network. Local taxi companies, xe om (motorbike taxis) and bicycle rentals have long served both residents and tourists.
These traditional services often have strong local roots and may not face as much direct competition from ride-hailing apps in certain areas.
Many hotels and homestays also have partnerships with local drivers or offer their own shuttle services. This integrated local system often provides reliable alternatives, sometimes making the need for Grab less pressing for both providers and users.
Geographic spread of attractions
Ninh Binh’s attractions are spread across various locations, some of which are more rural. While key sites like Tam Coc and Trang An are popular, getting to more remote spots can be challenging for ride-hailing apps. Drivers might be hesitant to accept fares to isolated areas where return trips are less likely to secure another passenger.
This spread-out nature of attractions means that while Grab in Ninh Binh is available, its effectiveness can diminish as you venture further from the main tourist clusters. Planning your routes and considering multiple transport methods becomes essential.
Reliable transportation alternatives to Grab in Ninh Binh for backpackers
Given the potential limitations of Grab in certain situations, it is highly advisable to be familiar with other reliable transportation options in Ninh Binh. These alternatives often provide excellent service and can be more readily available, especially outside major tourist hubs.
Traditional Taxis
Traditional meter taxis are a ubiquitous and reliable option in Ninh Binh. You can easily find them at train stations, bus stations, hotels and major tourist attractions.
Look for reputable local companies such as Mai Linh Taxi or Taxi Group. These companies use meters, ensuring transparent pricing.
When hailing a taxi, always ensure the meter is used or agree on a fare beforehand for longer journeys. This prevents misunderstandings and ensures fair pricing.
Taxis are particularly suitable for travelers with luggage or those preferring air-conditioned comfort. For a typical short ride in town (5-10 minutes), expect to pay around 50,000-80,000 VND.
Motorbike rentals
For most backpackers, renting a motorbike is the best way to explore Ninh Binh. It gives you complete freedom to chase sunrise at Mua Cave, stop for photos whenever you like and reach spots where buses and taxis rarely go. Plus, it’s super budget-friendly!
Almost every homestay in Tam Coc and Ninh Binh City can arrange a bike for you, usually for 100,000-150,000 VND per day (fuel not included).
Just make sure you’re comfortable riding, always wear a helmet and double-check the brakes and lights before you take off. If you’re not confident, consider a motorbike tour with a local guide for a worry-free experience.
Xe Om (Motorbike Taxis)
Xe om, or traditional motorbike taxis, are readily available throughout Ninh Binh. They are an excellent option for short distances or for navigating busy local streets. You can spot xe om drivers near markets, bus stops and tourist areas.
Always negotiate the fare before starting your journey. A general rule of thumb is to offer a slightly lower price than their initial quote and settle somewhere in the middle.
For short rides within Tam Coc or Ninh Binh City (e.g., from your homestay to a restaurant), expect to pay 20,000-50,000 VND.
For longer rides to attractions like Trang An or Mua Cave, it might be 40,000-80,000 VND. It’s helpful to check the distance on Google Maps first so you have a reference point.
A simple “Tam Coc?” or “Bao nhiêu tiền?” (How much money?) with your phone showing the destination will usually get the conversation started.
Private drivers and car rentals with drivers
For families, groups (3-4 people can split costs effectively), or those seeking maximum comfort and convenience, hiring a private driver or a car with a driver is an excellent choice.
This option allows for personalized itineraries and eliminates the hassle of navigation. Many hotels and local travel agencies can arrange this service.
Prices for private drivers vary based on the vehicle type, duration and distance. This method is particularly recommended for day trips to multiple attractions or for transfers between Ninh Binh and other cities like Hanoi.Confirm inclusions like fuel and tolls when booking. Expect to pay around 500,000-800,000 VND for a half-day tour, or 1,000,000-1,500,000 VND for a full day, depending on the itinerary.
Bicycle rentals
For exploring scenic areas like Tam Coc and its surrounding villages, renting a bicycle is a delightful and environmentally friendly option. Many accommodations in the Tam Coc area offer bicycles for rent at a nominal fee (e.g., 20,000-30,000 VND per day) or even for free.
Cycling allows you to immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes, rice paddies and local life at a leisurely pace. It is perfect for short distances between your accommodation and nearby attractions. Ensure the bicycle is in good working order before setting off.
Planning your transportation strategy in Ninh Binh
An effective transportation strategy for your Ninh Binh trip involves a mix of planning and flexibility. Knowing your options will ensure you spend more time enjoying the scenery and less time worrying about how to get around.
Research your routes and distances
Before heading out, identify the locations of the attractions you wish to visit relative to your accommodation. Google Maps can provide approximate distances and travel times. This will help you decide if a walk, bicycle ride, xe om, or a car (Grab or taxi) is most appropriate.
Many key attractions, such as Tam Coc, Trang An and Mua Cave, are within reasonable proximity to each other, especially if staying in the Tam Coc area. However, visiting destinations like Cuc Phuong National Park will require longer journeys.
Combine methods for efficiency
Don’t hesitate to combine different transportation methods throughout your trip. For example, you might take a GrabCar from Ninh Binh City to Tam Coc, rent a bicycle to explore Tam Coc’s surroundings and then use a local taxi or xe om for a late-night dinner in town.
This mixed approach allows you to leverage the strengths of each transport type. It also mitigates the risk of being stranded if one particular service is unavailable. Flexibility is key when traveling in regions where ride-hailing services are still developing.
Keep local contacts handy
If your hotel or homestay offers transport services, ask for their contact information or the contact of a trusted local driver. Having a local number can be invaluable, especially when you are in a less-trafficked area and need a ride.
Local drivers often have excellent knowledge of the area and can provide insights into local culture or recommend places to visit. They might also be more willing to negotiate prices for multi-stop trips or full-day hires.
Night arrivals / Late-night rides
If you’re arriving in Ninh Binh by bus or train late in the evening (after 9 PM) or plan to be out late, it’s smart to plan ahead. While Grab might still be active, driver availability can be very low, leading to long waits or no cars at all.
Your best bet: Arrange a pick-up with your homestay or hotel in advance. Most accommodations are happy to organize this for a reasonable fee, giving you peace of mind upon arrival. Alternatively, have a trusted local taxi number ready. Avoid getting into unmarked cars with overly enthusiastic touts at stations.
Always confirm prices and destinations (avoid scams!)
Regardless of the transport method, always confirm the price and destination before starting your journey. For traditional taxis, ensure the meter is running. For xe om or private cars, agree on a fixed fare. Don’t be afraid to bargain politely for xe om – it’s expected!
For Grab, the fare is usually displayed in the app, but it is still good practice to confirm the destination with the driver. Clear communication prevents misunderstandings and ensures a fair transaction, contributing to a pleasant travel experience. A quick check on Google Maps for the distance can also help you gauge if a quoted price is fair.
Final Words
For a seamless travel experience, it’s wise to consider Grab as one of several viable transportation options. Relying solely on Grab in Ninh Binh might lead to occasional longer wait times or limited availability, particularly in more remote areas or during off-peak hours.
By understanding and utilizing traditional taxis, motorbike rentals, xe om, private drivers and even bicycles, you can navigate Ninh Binh with confidence and ease.
This multi-modal approach ensures you can fully explore the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of this beautiful region without transportation worries.
