Car Rental in Hanoi

Where to drive

• Ha Long Bay: Drive approximately 2.5-3 hours (around 170 km) to witness the iconic limestone karsts and emerald waters of Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Ninh Binh (Tam Coc/Hoa Lu): A 2-hour drive (about 100 km) south of Hanoi takes you to Ninh Binh, often called 'Ha Long Bay on land,' with its stunning rice paddies and ancient temples.
• Sapa: Venture north for about 5-6 hours (around 320 km) to the mountainous town of Sapa, famous for its terraced rice fields and ethnic minority cultures. This trip requires careful driving due to winding roads.
• Mai Chau: Approximately 3.5-4 hours (around 160 km) west of Hanoi, Mai Chau offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful valleys, stilt houses, and trekking opportunities.
• Ba Vi National Park: Just an hour and a half drive (around 60 km) from Hanoi, this park provides a refreshing escape with lush forests, mountain peaks, and cool air, perfect for a day trip.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Vietnam, you will typically need a valid passport, your national driving license, and an International Driving Permit (IDP) that corresponds to your national license. Drivers generally must be at least 21 years old and have held their license for a minimum of one year. Some rental agencies may have higher age or experience requirements.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Hanoi vary significantly based on vehicle class and seasonality. Economy cars might start from around 25-35 USD per day during off-peak seasons, while SUVs or premium vehicles can range from 50-80 USD or more daily. Prices tend to increase by approximately 15-30% during peak travel months like December and January, and again in July and August.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Vietnam, traffic drives on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are typically 60 km/h in urban areas and 80-90 km/h on rural roads and highways, though these can vary. The legal blood alcohol limit for drivers is effectively zero (0.00% BAC). Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and child seats are recommended for young children, although their availability can vary. Headlights are generally not required during the day unless visibility is poor.

Parking

Parking in Hanoi can be challenging, especially in the Old Quarter. Many hotels offer private parking for guests. Public parking often involves designated areas with attendants who collect a small fee, typically a few thousand VND per hour. Street parking can be scarce and is often regulated; look for signs or ask locals. For longer stays, consider secure parking lots or underground facilities which are becoming more common.

Fuel stations

Fuel is widely available throughout Hanoi and on major routes across Vietnam. Petrol stations are common, and most accept cash, though some larger ones may accept cards. The price of petrol (gasoline) is generally around 25,000-28,000 VND per liter, with diesel slightly cheaper. It's advisable to fill up in larger towns before heading to more remote areas.

Which car to choose

For driving in and around Hanoi, a compact or economy car is often suitable for city navigation and shorter trips. If you plan to venture into mountainous regions like Sapa or tackle longer distances with more passengers and luggage, an SUV with higher ground clearance and a more robust engine would be a better choice. Automatic transmission is highly recommended for comfort in Hanoi's often congested traffic.

Frequently asked questions