Getting around Nha Trang is relatively convenient, with paved roads, railway tracks and a variety of public transportation that ensure a hassle-free vacation in Vietnam’s most popular coastal town. For the most part, Nha Trang is a pedestrian-friendly town as numerous tourist attractions, popular restaurants, bars and nightclubs, as well as shopping venues are set within walking distances from each other. However, you can also opt for several alternatives for warmer days when you’re not feeling like walking under the blazing sun.
Offering English-speaking drivers and comfortable seats, taxis are often used as a safe but pricey method of transportation in Nha Trang. The town also offers buses, motorcycle taxis, and cyclo taxi services which are great for backpackers and budget-conscious travellers. If you’re looking to explore beyond the coastal town, Nha Trang is also connected to other regions in Vietnam through a number of domestic flights, railway systems, and open-tour buses.
Cyclo
Cyclo is a three-wheeled rickshaw in Nha Trang, which has a seat attached to the front of a bicycle. Found mostly in touristy areas such as Nha Trang Beach, this unique vehicle can carry one person (or two at best) and is priced at about VND 22,000 per kilometre. Do note that some cyclo drivers charge exorbitant prices for their services, so it’s safe to check the standard fare with your hotel beforehand. Bargaining is also highly recommended; if a driver does not comply with your price, simply move on to the next one.
Xe Om (Motorcycle Taxi)
Tourists can opt for motorcycle taxis as it is a cheaper and more interesting way for getting around in Nha Trang. Known as Xe Om, you can easily spot one almost anywhere in Nha Trang – just look out for a sign that reads ‘Xe Om’ attached to the front of the motorcycle. Prices may vary according to distance, road conditions and weather, but expect to pay between VND 10,000 and VND 15,000 per kilometre.
These vehicles are also driven by experienced locals, so you’ll be sure to enjoy more scenic routes and arrive at your destination on time. For your safety, helmets are provided before you get on a Xe Om.
Taxi
Driven by English-speaking drivers, taxis are a very reliable method of transportation in Nha Trang as they are equipped with air-conditioning, comfortable seats, and reliable meters. Travellers arriving at Cam Ranh Airport can either purchase a ticket for VND 40,000 for a shuttle to the old Nha Trang city airport (where they can take a taxi to their destination) or purchase a taxi voucher for about VND 290,000 that will directly charter them to their hotel or destination.
Motorcycle
Renting a motorcycle is the best option if you’re looking to explore Nha Trang’s countryside at your own pace. Priced between VND 60,000 and VND 100,000 a day, some bike rental outlets require travellers to pay in advance, sign a rental contract, or leave a photocopy of their ID or passport. Make sure you have a valid driver’s license and remember to thoroughly inspect the motorcycle before making your purchase, especially brakes, mirrors, lights, and horn. While it is a more budget-friendly way of getting around Nha Trang, we highly refrain inexperienced bikers from undertaking long-distance trips as Vietnam’s roads can be quite risky.
Bicycle
Cycling through Nha Trang’s beautiful countryside, pristine waterfalls, and verdant mountains is a very popular way of transport for backpackers. Depending on the model (mountain or city bike), bicycle rentals are priced between USD5 and YSD7 a day, which is inclusive of a helmet, lock, and multi-tools. Great for group travellers, there are also full-day bicycle tours available in Nha Trang, where they cycle to numerous rural villages, rice paddy fields, and popular attractions with an English-speaking tour guide.