Getting around Vietnam's cities between appointments

Ride-hailing, taxis, metro lines and walking, and how to reach your clinic on time.

Written by VietDentalTrip editorial team

Updated

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Key points

  • Ride-hailing apps are the simplest way to reach appointments in the big cities.
  • Traffic is heavy at rush hour, so leave extra time or stay within walking distance of your clinic.
  • After surgery, take a car rather than a motorbike taxi.

Most patients spend their trip going back and forth between a hotel and a clinic. Getting that short journey right makes the whole week easier.

Ride-hailing apps

Apps such as Grab work in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang and other large cities. You see the price before you book, and you can choose a car or a motorbike. Set the app up before you arrive, with a payment card if you prefer not to carry cash.

Taxis

Metered taxis are easy to find at airports and hotels. Ask your hotel to call one, and check the meter is running.

Metro lines

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City both have metro lines, but they cover only some routes. They're useful if your hotel and clinic happen to be near a station.

Walking

Central districts are walkable, but pavements are often used for parking and street stalls. Crossing busy roads takes practice: walk slowly and steadily so drivers can go around you.

On treatment days

  • Leave 20 to 30 minutes of slack at rush hour.
  • After surgery or sedation, go back to the hotel by car, not motorbike.
  • Keep the clinic's address in Vietnamese on your phone.

Frequently asked questions

Should I take a motorbike taxi?

They're quick and common, but after surgery or sedation take a car. Always wear the helmet the driver gives you.

Do I need to speak Vietnamese?

No. Ride-hailing apps show the destination and price in the app. Have your clinic's address written in Vietnamese to show drivers if needed.

This article is general information, not medical advice. A dentist who has examined you is the right person to recommend treatment.

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