Park motorbike in Vietnam might seem simple at first, but navigating the local customs, understanding parking rules, and finding secure spots can be more challenging than it looks especially for foreigners.
In a country where motorbikes are the primary mode of transportation, knowing how and where to park can make your experience much smoother. From busy city streets to quieter rural areas, having a good grasp of Vietnam’s parking system is key to avoiding unnecessary hassle. In this guide, we’ll explain how to park a motorbike in Vietnam, where to find safe parking, what it costs, and the important rules you need to follow.
Where to park motorbike in Vietnam?
With motorbikes being the dominant mode of transportation in Vietnam, finding a place to park isn’t usually difficult, but choosing the right spot is important. You can park your motorbike in designated lots, on the street in authorized areas, or even at private businesses that offer parking services.
- Parking Lots: In every major city in Vietnam, parking lots can be found near tourist spots, markets, and shopping centers. Look for signs like “Giữ Xe” or “Gửi Xe” to identify official parking areas with attendants, providing extra security. These lots reduce the risk of theft or fines, ensuring your bike is parked safely and monitored.
- Private Businesses: Many local businesses, such as coffee shops and restaurants, provide parking spaces for their customers. Parking is often free if you’re a paying customer, though some establishments may charge a small fee, particularly in busier areas.
How much does it cost to park motorbike in Vietnam?
Parking fees in Vietnam vary depending on the location and how long you plan to park. Here’s a general breakdown:
- Parking Lots: is the most common and affordable option in Vietnam, particularly in urban areas. In managed street parking, where attendants provide a ticket, the typical cost ranges from 2,000 to 5,000 VND per instance (approximately $0.10 to $0.25 USD). In some areas, especially near tourist attractions or in city centers, this fee might increase to 10,000 VND for short-term parking. During holidays or in tourist-heavy locations, parking fees can rise slightly due to higher demand.
- Private Parking Garages: malls, hotels, and private garages tend to charge more, with rates starting around 10,000 to 15,000 VND for a few hours. For longer stays, daily rates can go up to 100,000 VND (around $4.00 USD), especially in major cities where space is at a premium.
- Parking at Hotels or Malls: at hotels, parking is usually free for guests, though some may charge a small fee. Shopping malls and commercial centers such as: Vincom Mega Mall, Vincom Center Landmark 81, Aeon Mall, Saigon Centre, Dimond Plaza, etc… Generally have higher parking rates, starting at around 10,000 VND for a couple of hours. For longer stays or premium parking services, some malls may charge extra.
- Parking at Restaurants and Cafes: parking is often free at restaurants and cafes, especially if you’re a customer. However, some places, particularly in busier areas, may charge a small fee for parking.
Risks of Parking in Unauthorized Areas and without guard:
Parking a motorbike in unauthorized areas or without a guard in Vietnam carries several risks that can affect both your motorbike’s safety and your wallet. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you could face:
- Fines: park where you’re not supposed to, and you’ll pay. Fines run from 100,000 to 200,000 VND ($4 to $8 USD), and the police don’t waste time, they’ll hand you the ticket right there. But it doesn’t stop at a fine. If you’re caught without your driver’s license or the motorbike registration, things can get worse. The cops will take your bike to the station, and you’ll need to show up with the missing papers, and pay all the fines included to get your motorbike back.
- Increased Risk of Theft: parking your motorbike without a guard greatly increases the chance of it being stolen. It can happen faster than you think, your bike could be gone in just 1-3 minutes. Thieves work quickly, and without protection, you might not even have time to notice before it’s too late.
- Difficulty in Retrieving Your Bike: if you park in the wrong spot and your bike gets towed, getting it back can be a hassle. You’ll first need to locate the police impound lot, which can be tricky, especially if you’re not familiar with the area.
Beware of Theft: How Quickly Motorbikes Are Stolen in Vietnam:
In Vietnam, motorbikes can be stolen in just a few minutes, especially if parked in places without a guard or in quiet areas. Without good security, like a strong lock or cameras, thieves can easily take a bike without anyone noticing. Always take steps to protect your motorbike. Here are some images captured by cameras, showing just how fast these thefts can happen.
FAQ: Park Motorbike in Vietnam
- Where can I park my motorbike in Vietnam?
You can park in designated parking lots, authorized street areas, or at private businesses like restaurants or malls. Look for signs saying “Giữ Xe” or “Gửi Xe” to find official parking spots. Always ensure you’re parking in legal areas to avoid fines. - How much does it cost to park a motorbike in Vietnam?
Parking fees vary by location and duration. Street parking typically costs 2,000 to 5,000 VND ($0.10 to $0.25 USD), while malls or private garages may charge 10,000 to 15,000 VND ($0.50 to $0.75 USD) for a few hours. Overnight parking can go up to 30,000 VND ($1.30 USD). - Is it safe to park my motorbike on the street in Vietnam?
The risk of theft increases in isolated or unmonitored areas. It’s recommended to park in places with security guards or in designated parking lots to ensure the safety of your motorbike. - What happens if I park in a restricted zone?
Parking in unauthorized zones can result in fines from 100,000 to 200,000 VND ($4 to $8 USD). In some cases, your motorbike may be towed, and retrieving it from the police involves paying extra fees and providing proper documents, such as your driver’s license and registration. - Can I park at hotels and cafes in Vietnam?
Yes, many hotels and cafes offer free parking for their guests or customers. However, some may charge a small fee in busier areas. Always check with the business if parking is free or if there’s a fee.
