Welcome to the vibrant and bustling city of Hanoi, Vietnam, where ancient traditions meet modern conveniences in a tapestry of culture and history.
As you embark on your journey to explore this captivating capital, equipping yourself with the right tools can significantly enhance your travel experience.
In this guide, we introduce you to the best mobile apps for travelers in Hanoi, designed to make your stay more enjoyable, convenient, and immersive.
Whether you’re seeking delicious street food, navigating the city’s enchanting streets, or communicating with locals, these apps will be your trusty companions throughout your adventure in Hanoi.
Here are some useful apps for travelers in Hanoi:
Grab (formerly GrabTaxi):
Grab is a popular ride-hailing app in Vietnam that allows you to book taxis, motorbike taxis (xe ôm), and car services.
It’s a convenient way to get around the city.
There is no Uber in Vietnam, so Grab is the most reliable and affordable option for transportation.
Plus, with its built-in GPS feature, you can easily track your ride and know exactly where you’re heading.
Google Maps:
Google Maps is always a handy tool for navigation, finding local businesses, and getting directions for walking, driving, or public transportation.
Maps.me is another excellent offline map option that provides detailed maps of Hanoi with points of interest, trails, and hiking routes.
Don’t forget to download the map before arriving in Hanoi to save on data usage.
Foody:
Foody is a restaurant and food discovery app that provides information on local restaurants, cafes, and street food stalls in Hanoi.
You can read reviews, view photos, and get recommendations.
Zalo
Zalo is the most popular messaging app in Vietnam, and it’s an essential tool for communicating with locals and making new friends.
You can also use it to make phone and video calls without using your phone plan or data.
It’s like the WhatsApp of Vietnam, so download it and add some new contacts before your trip!
But don’t worry; you can still use WhatsApp in Hanoi for international communication.
iTranslate:
For travelers who don’t speak Vietnamese, iTranslate is a helpful app for translating phrases and communicating with locals.
It can assist you in bridging the language barrier.
XE Currency Converter:
If you need to convert local currency (Vietnamese Dong – VND) to your home currency, XE Currency Converter is a reliable choice.
BusMap:
This app provides information on Hanoi’s bus routes, schedules, and fares, which can be helpful for budget travelers exploring the city by public transportation.
AccuWeather:
To keep track of the weather in Hanoi and plan your outdoor activities accordingly, AccuWeather is a reliable weather forecasting app.
Currency Exchange – SJC Hanoi:
If you need to exchange currency or find information about the current exchange rates, this app can be helpful.
Remember that mobile apps can change in popularity and availability, so it’s a good practice to check for the most recent reviews and ratings in the app stores before your trip.
Additionally, having an excellent offline map app and a translation app can be very helpful, as you may not always have access to mobile data while traveling.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about using mobile apps in Hanoi:
What is the Vietnamese version of WhatsApp?
The Vietnamese equivalent of WhatsApp is “Zalo.”
What taxi app to use in Vietnam?
Grab is the most popular ride-hailing app for taxis, motorbike taxis, and car services in Vietnam.
What is the transportation app in Hanoi?
Grab is a widely used transportation app in Hanoi, providing options for taxis, motorbike taxis, and car services.
What is Vietnam’s version of Uber?
Vietnam’s alternative to Uber is Grab, the most reliable and affordable option for transportation.
Can I use Grab in Hanoi?
Yes, you can use Grab in Hanoi for convenient and reliable transportation services.
Does Grab work in Halong?
Yes, Grab services are available in Halong, making it convenient for travelers to get around.
How do you get around Hanoi?
In Hanoi, you can get around using various transportation options, including Grab, traditional taxis, cyclos, public buses, or simply walking to explore the city’s unique charm.
For more information, read my guide about how to get around Hanoi.
| App | Description |
|---|---|
| Grab (formerly GrabTaxi) | Popular ride-hailing app for taxis, motorbike taxis, and car services. Convenient and reliable transportation option with built-in GPS tracking. |
| Google Maps | It is a handy tool for navigation, finding local businesses, and getting directions. Consider using Maps.me for offline maps. |
| Foody | Restaurant and food discovery app with information on local dining options, reviews, photos, and recommendations. |
| Zalo | Popular messaging app in Vietnam for communication and making new friends. Also offers phone and video calls. |
| iTranslate | Useful translation app for bridging the language barrier and communicating with locals. |
| XE Currency Converter | Reliable currency conversion tool for converting Vietnamese Dong (VND) to your home currency. |
| BusMap | Provides information on Hanoi’s bus routes, schedules, and fares for budget travelers using public transportation. |
| AccuWeather | Weather forecasting app to plan outdoor activities in Hanoi accordingly. |
| Currency Exchange – SJC Hanoi | App for currency exchange and current exchange rate information. |
In conclusion
Hanoi, Vietnam, is a city that offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and modernity, making it a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide.
As you embark on your journey to explore this vibrant metropolis, the right mobile apps can be your trusted companions, simplifying your travel experience and enhancing your adventures.
From the convenience of Grab for hassle-free transportation to the invaluable assistance of Google Maps and local discovery through Foody, these apps are your key to unlocking the hidden treasures of Hanoi.
Zalo keeps you connected with locals, iTranslate bridges language barriers, and AccuWeather ensures you’re prepared for any weather condition.
These apps, along with others mentioned in this guide, serve as valuable tools for both the seasoned traveler and the first-time visitor.
Whether indulging in delectable street food, wandering through historic streets, or conversing with warm-hearted locals, these apps will make your journey in Hanoi more accessible, informative, and enjoyable.
We hope this guide has been a valuable resource, helping you make the most of your time in this enchanting city.
So, arm yourself with these apps, immerse yourself in Hanoi’s rich tapestry, and create lasting memories that will forever be etched in your travel adventures.
