Is Grab available in Ninh Binh? Let’s find out the real-world answer for Indian Travelers

Hi, I’m Hanna. I know when you plan your trip, practical questions are the first to come to mind. You’ve used apps like Ola and Uber back home, and you’re comfortable with Grab in cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City. So, the big question you have is a very smart one: “Is Grab available in Ninh Binh?“

As your trusted guide and friend in Vietnam, let me give you the complete, honest, and practical answer. The short answer is yes, Grab is available in Ninh Binh—but with limitations you should know before you rely on it. Let me explain how it works, where you can use it, and the best alternatives to travel through Ninh Binh like a local, saving you time, money, and hassle.

(Note: Information is current as of our last update in 2025. Always check the Grab app for real-time availability and pricing.)

Is Grab available in Ninh Binh? A Detailed Breakdown

Yes, Grab officially launched its services in Ninh Binh on June 19th, 2024. However, its presence isn’t as widespread as in major hubs like Hanoi. While you can use the app, the service is concentrated in certain areas and service types.

Here’s a clear look at what to expect from Grab in Ninh Binh.

GrabCar (4-seater and 7-seater cars)

• Availability: Limited. You can find GrabCars primarily in Ninh Binh city center, near the train station, and around major hotels. If you’re a family arriving by train and need a ride to your Tam Coc resort, booking a GrabCar in Ninh Binh is possible.
• Limitation: The number of drivers is low. This means wait times are longer, typically 10-15 minutes, compared to the 2-3 minutes in bigger cities. During peak hours, rainy weather, or late at night, finding a car can be a real challenge.
• Price & Payment: Prices are fixed in the app, eliminating the need to bargain. You can pay via credit card linked in the app or with cash (VND), though many drivers prefer cash.
• Best for: Short, one-way trips, like from Ninh Binh city to a hotel in Tam Coc, or for an evening ride to a specific Indian restaurant in Ninh Binh.

GrabBike (Motorbike)

• Availability: Excellent. GrabBike dominates the ride-hailing scene in Ninh Binh. You will find far more GrabBike drivers than cars, and they are constantly moving around the main tourist areas.
• Limitation: Strictly for one passenger per bike. If you are a group or family, you’ll need to book multiple bikes, which requires coordination. You also need to be comfortable riding on the back of a motorbike in local traffic.
• Price: Extremely affordable. A short trip of a few kilometers can cost as little as 25,000 VND (around 90 INR), making it a fantastic budget option.
• Best for: Solo travellers and couples for quick, economical trips, such as getting from a homestay to the Tam Coc boat ride entrance or exploring the town.

A crucial tip: Always have a Vietnamese SIM card (like Viettel or Vinaphone) with a good data plan. Your Indian SIM on international roaming can be slow and expensive. You need good internet to use the Grab app effectively. You can buy a tourist SIM right at the airport in Hanoi when you land.

Comparing Your Ninh Binh Transport Options

To help you decide instantly, here is a quick comparison table of all transport options. This will help you see why, despite the fact that Grab is available in Ninh Binh, it might not always be the best choice.

Top Alternative Transportation Options in Ninh Binh

Private car with driver

This is, without a doubt, the most popular and recommended option for Indian guests.

• How it works: You hire a car (4-seater, 7-seater, or even a 16-seater van) with a local driver for a full day (typically 8-10 hours).
• Why it’s perfect for Indian travellers:
  • Stress-free: The driver handles navigation to all key spots like Trang An, Bai Dinh Pagoda, Mua Caves, and Tam Coc. You relax in air-conditioned comfort.
  • Customisable: You control the itinerary. Spend extra time where you like or ask the driver for recommendations, even for restaurants with vegetarian options.
  • Secure: Your luggage and belongings are safe in the car while you enjoy a two-hour boat ride or hike.
  • Cost-effective for groups: Splitting the cost between 4-6 people makes it a very reasonable and valuable option.
• Specific evidence (Cost): A full-day private car in Ninh Binh typically costs between 1,200,000 to 1,600,000 VND (approximately $50 – $70 USD or 4,200 – 5,800 INR). You can book this through your hotel, a local agent, or we can help arrange a trusted driver.

Taxis

If you just need a one-way trip and can’t find a Grab, traditional taxis are a solid backup.

• Reliable companies: Look for reputable brands like Mai Linh Taxi (green), Hoa Lu Taxi, or Xuan Thanh Taxi. They are known for using the meter correctly.
• How to use: The easiest method is to have your hotel receptionist call one for you. This ensures you get a trustworthy company and avoids any communication issues.
• Cost: Generally slightly more expensive than GrabCar, but they are often more readily available, especially outside the main city center.

Motorbike rentals

For adventurous couples or solo travellers with an International Driving Permit (IDP), this is an unbeatable way to experience Ninh Binh.

• The experience: Enjoy absolute freedom. Drive through lush green paddy fields, stop for photos whenever you wish, and discover hidden temples and laneways at your own pace.
• Cost: Very cheap! Renting a scooter costs about 100,000 – 150,000 VND per day (around 350 – 550 INR), plus a small amount for petrol.
• Important warning: Please be careful. Vietnamese traffic can be chaotic. Always wear the provided helmet (it’s legally required) and only rent if you are a confident and licensed rider. Your safety is paramount.

Bicycle rentals

In scenic areas like Tam Coc, where your hotel is surrounded by limestone karsts and rice fields, a bicycle is perfect for short-distance exploration.

• The experience: Imagine a gentle morning cycle along the riverbanks in Ninh Binh or across golden rice paddies, passing locals working in the fields. Whether it’s gliding beside the Ngo Dong River or pedaling through lush countryside, it’s pure poetry in motion.
• Cost: Many hotels and homestays offer bicycles for free or for a very small fee (around 50,000 VND / 180 INR for a day).

Sample Transport Plans for Different Indian Travellers

Let me simplify it further. Here’s how I would advise different groups:

• For a family with kids:
  • Day 1 (Sightseeing): A private car is a must. The comfort and convenience for visiting Bai Dinh, Trang An, and Mua Caves are worth every penny.
  • Evening: For dinner, try booking a GrabCar first. If you can’t find one within 10 minutes, ask your hotel to call a Mai Linh Taxi as a reliable backup.
• For a young couple on a romantic trip:
  • Day 1: Rent a motorbike to create your own adventure and explore the countryside with complete freedom.
  • For short trips: Use GrabBike. It’s fast, cheap, fun, and perfect for quick rides to cafes or restaurants.
• For a solo budget traveller:
  • Main transport: A rented motorbike offers the ultimate freedom at the lowest cost for all-day exploration.
  • Alternative: Rely on GrabBike to hop between the main attractions. It’s totally doable and very economical if you don’t want to ride yourself.

Practical Tips for Indian Visitors

• Cash is king: While Grab accepts card payments, many drivers prefer cash (VND). You will definitely need Vietnamese Dong for motorbike rentals, food stalls, and attraction entrance tickets.
• Finding vegetarian food: Ninh Binh has some wonderful vegetarian restaurants! Having a private driver or the flexibility of a motorbike makes it easier to reach places like An Lac Chay. Just show them the name on Google Maps. You can find more options in our Ninh Binh food guide.
• Bargaining: Not needed for Grab and metered taxis. For private car hire or motorbike rental, prices are generally fair, but you can politely inquire if there’s a better rate for a multi-day rental.
• Offline maps: Download the Ninh Binh area on Google Maps offline. This can save you a significant amount of data and is a lifesaver if you lose your internet connection in a rural area. The average Grab wait time is 10-15 minutes in the city but can be over 20 minutes in Tam Coc.

Conclusion: The Final Verdict on Grab in Ninh Binh

So, let’s return to our original question: is Grab available in Ninh Binh? Yes, it is, and it serves as a useful tool for specific situations. Grab is best for short, simple trips, with GrabBike being the most reliable and economical choice for solo travellers and couples.

However, to truly experience the magic of Ninh Binh without stress, especially for families and groups on a sightseeing schedule, I strongly recommend a private car for the day. For adventurous travellers, a rented motorbike remains the undisputed key to freedom and discovery.

Think of Grab as one tool in your toolbox, but not the only one. By combining these options smartly, you will have the most amazing, smooth, and unforgettable journey through the spectacular landscapes of my home, Ninh Binh.

Further Reading for Your Ninh Binh Trip:

• The Ultimate Ninh Binh Travel Guide
• Where to Stay in Ninh Binh: Best Hotels & Homestays