Private Car Trips with Driver in Hoi An | Prices & Tips
Today, I will explain everything you need to know to take a private car for your trips in Hoi An and Da Nang. What are the advantages and the scams? Is it cheaper than a taxi? What are the prices? How do you book a private car? I answer all these questions in this article.
Taxi or Private Driver?
In Vietnam, private car transfer services often offer more advantageous rates than traditional taxis. Taxi drivers, who are paid on commission and earn about 30% of the fare, generally have increased prices to cover this payment structure. In contrast, private car drivers, whether independent or salaried with commissions, can offer more competitive prices, keeping most or all of the amount charged for services like transfers to Da Nang airport among others.
Private cars offer more flexibility to negotiate rates, especially for round trips with waiting time. In Hoi An, private transfers are ideal for long distances, offering an economical and reliable solution, while taxis remain practical for short urban distances.
Rates for Private Cars in Hoi An
| Journey | Price |
|---|---|
| One-way from Hoi An to Hué | 1,450,000 VND (€54) |
| Round-trip from Hoi An to My Son | 800,000 VND (€30) |
| Round-trip from Hoi An to Ba Na Hills | 1,100,000 VND (€41) |
| One-way from Hoi An to Da Nang Airport | 270,000 VND (€10) |
For comparison, a trip from JFK Airport to Manhattan is €70. Yes, taking a private car ride in Vietnam is inexpensive.
What are the Advantages of Opting for a Private Car Transfer Service ?
Private transfers offer an ideal solution for exploring Hoi An comfortably and without constraints, with personalized door-to-door service. This choice is particularly suitable for those who prefer the comfort of cars over motorcycles, and for those used to renting cars or using taxis on vacation.
For families, the flexibility of private transfers is unmatched, allowing the itinerary to be adjusted according to immediate needs, such as breaks for tired or uncomfortable children. These services are also beneficial for groups of three or more, making travel together more economical and enjoyable.
The available vehicles, often spacious, new, and comfortable, are designed to comfortably accommodate several passengers, offering significant added value in a country dominated by scooters.
Types of Cars Available for a Private Trip in Hoi An
When considering renting a private car in Hoi An, you have three main options depending on vehicle capacity: 4 seats, 7 seats, and 16 seats. Although the cost increases with the capacity of the vehicle, it is important to note that this increase is not strictly proportional to the number of seats.
For example, renting a 7-seat vehicle is slightly more expensive than a 4-seat one, but a 16-seat minibus is much more expensive. Why? Simply because 16-seat minibuses are less common.
Most transport companies prefer 7-seat cars for their flexibility, as they can accommodate journeys planned for 4 or 7 passengers.
How many people per car?
Generally, you should count a maximum of 3 people for a 4-seater car, and 5 people for a 7-seater car because most tourists forget about the space needed for luggage, and a trunk can quickly limit the number of people in a car.
How to Book a Private Transfer Car in Hoi An
The first option is the hotel.
Hotels usually charge a supplement for this service, often around 50,000 VND (about $2.2 USD) or more depending on the journey. Even with this supplement, the total cost generally remains lower than that of a metered taxi, but there are ways to reduce the price with the other two options.
The second option is to contact a driver directly to avoid this supplement. However, this option presents challenges. First, it can be difficult to find a reliable and trustworthy driver, especially if you are new in town and without local contacts. Second, the language barrier can be a problem, as many drivers speak only basic English, if at all, making communication and trip organization more complex.
The third option is to contact a journey company like Hoi An Transport Service (https://hoiantransportservice.com), which is one of the most reputable in Hoi An, and a plus, booking is done in Englishh and in French. An email or a phone call can have a driver at your hotel in no time.
Keep in mind that private cars must be booked in advance. The time required by the driver can vary from a few minutes to several days, depending on the distance to be traveled and the time you need the service, although I was able to book a car with Hoi An Trajets in the morning for the afternoon, not all transport companies are as responsive.
It is generally recommended to contact the driver at least 24 hours before your trip. Also note that costs may slightly increase after 10 PM and midnight, although services are available 24/7.
Scams in Journeys in Hoi An
In Hoi An, beware of a scam where low prices are displayed for trips like from Hoi An to Da Nang for only 200,000 VND. What seems cheap at first may not be, as you have to add 100,000 VND to continue to Da Nang airport, thus exploiting customer confusion.
Also be vigilant about the waiting time for monument visits. It’s not a scam per se, but some services offer attractive rates that include a limited on-site waiting time of 45 minutes, which is insufficient to properly explore the sites. I challenge you to visit the My Son sanctuary or the Marble Mountains in less than an hour. Good luck.
My Opinion
Unlike Europe, traveling by private car in Vietnam is inexpensive and it’s the mode of transportation I recommend (along with a scooter if you are comfortable with chaotic traffic).
The prices are low and you have flexibility with schedules. There is no need to go to Da Nang station to catch a train; the driver picks you up directly from your hotel and drops you off at your next hotel.
