Discover the latest ways to explore Da Lat with Legend Travel Group’s guide! From Xanh SM and Grab taxis to walking tours and motorbikes, plan your Lam Dong adventure with updated prices. Book now!
Nestled at 1,500 meters in the lush highlands of Lam Dong province, Da Lat is a romantic ward known as Vietnam’s “City of Eternal Spring” for its cool climate (15–25°C), misty pine forests, and vibrant flower gardens. With its French colonial charm, serene lakes, and adventure opportunities, Da Lat is perfect for couples, families, and thrill-seekers. Whether you’re strolling around Xuan Huong Lake, zipping through the city on a tech-driven taxi, or embarking on a guided tour, the ward offers diverse ways to explore its beauty. Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, curates immersive experiences that pair modern transport like Xanh SM and Grab with Da Lat’s iconic attractions. Ready to discover Da Lat? Book your tour via the links on this page and embark on a seamless highland adventure!
Legend Travel Group is your trusted partner for authentic Vietnam travel. Our English-speaking guides, sustainable partnerships with local transport and tourism providers, and seamless logistics ensure a hassle-free journey. We design tours to inspire action, offering the latest exploration methods while showcasing Da Lat’s cultural and natural treasures. Reserve your spot now and let us guide you through Lam Dong’s enchanting landscapes!
Da Lat’s pedestrian-friendly paths make walking an ideal way to soak in its charm. The 5-km promenade around Xuan Huong Lake, located in Ward 1, is a highlight, offering sunset views, flower-lined paths, and photo ops. Stop at lakeside cafés like Thuy Ta for coffee ($1–$2) or enjoy street food like banh trang nuong ($0.60–$1).
Cost: Free.
Duration: 1–2 hours for a full loop.
Best Time: Early morning (6:00–8:00 AM) or late afternoon (4:00–6:00 PM) for mild weather and soft light.
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes; avoid peak hours (10:00 AM–3:00 PM) to dodge crowds, as noted in Tripadvisor reviews.
Da Lat’s modern transport scene is dominated by ride-hailing apps like Xanh SM and Grab, offering eco-friendly and convenient ways to navigate the ward. These tech taxis provide transparent fares, real-time tracking, and safety features, making them popular among tourists.
Xanh SM: Vietnam’s leading electric taxi service, holding 37.41% market share in Q4 2024, Xanh SM uses VinFast electric vehicles (VF e34, VF 8) for emission-free rides. Known for its S2S safety system with AI-powered surveillance, it’s ideal for eco-conscious travelers.
Price: Starting at 29,000 VND ($1.16) for the first 2 km; 10,000 VND ($0.40)/km thereafter; 450 VND ($0.02)/minute waiting time. Airport surcharge: 10,000–15,000 VND ($0.40–$0.60).
Booking: Via Xanh SM app (App Store/Google Play) or hotline +84 1900 2088.
Availability: Operates across Da Lat, including central wards and Tuyen Lam Lake.
Highlights: Eco-friendly, quiet rides, and high customer satisfaction (83% per Q&Me surveys).
Grab: The top ride-hailing app with 36.62% market share, Grab offers GrabCar (4–7-seater cars) and GrabBike (motorbikes) with pre-booking and cashless payment options.
Price: GrabCar starts at 29,000 VND ($1.16) for 2 km; 10,000 VND ($0.40)/km thereafter; 450 VND ($0.02)/minute waiting. GrabBike: 15,000 VND ($0.60) for 2 km; 5,000 VND ($0.20)/km thereafter. Cancellation fee: 10,000 VND ($0.40) after 7 cancellations/week.
Booking: Via Grab app; requires Vietnamese SIM card or Wi-Fi.
Availability: Widespread in Da Lat, especially Wards 1–4 and tourist areas.
Note: Fares may double during peak hours or rain; Gen Z prefers Grab for its convenience, per Q&Me.
Tip: Download apps before arrival; use Xanh SM for eco-friendly rides or Grab for motorbike options. Carry small VND notes (10,000–50,000) for cash payments.
For those preferring metered cabs, traditional taxis like Mai Linh and Futa (Phuong Trang) are reliable, with modern fleets and professional drivers.
Price: Starting at 10,000–15,000 VND ($0.40–$0.60) for the first 0.5–0.8 km; 10,000–12,000 VND ($0.40–$0.48)/km thereafter. Airport surcharge: 10,000–15,000 VND ($0.40–$0.60).
Key Operators:
Mai Linh: Green vehicles, 4–7-seaters, available via app or hotline +84 263 351 1511. Rated 4.5/5 on Tripadvisor for reliability.
Futa Taxi: Operates 2,000+ vehicles in Da Lat, book via app or hotline +84 263 352 5252. Known for prompt service.
Booking: Hail on streets, use apps, or call hotlines; taxi stands at Da Lat Market or Lien Khuong Airport.
Tip: Insist on the meter to avoid overcharging; Mai Linh is ideal for airport transfers (180,000–300,000 VND, $7.20–$12 from Lien Khuong).
For a local experience, xe om (motorbike taxis) are a quick, affordable way to navigate Da Lat’s narrow streets. Found near Da Lat Central Market or tourist spots, they’re perfect for short trips.
Price: 20,000–50,000 VND ($0.80–$2) for 1–5 km, negotiable.
Booking: Hail at corners or negotiate via GrabBike for fixed fares.
Safety: Helmets mandatory; confirm price upfront. Avoid unofficial drivers posing as Grab, identifiable by green uniforms.
Tip: Have your destination written in Vietnamese or use Google Maps to communicate; ideal for solo travelers.
Da Lat’s flat central areas and scenic lake paths make cycling a delightful way to explore. Tandem bikes are popular for couples around Xuan Huong Lake.
Price: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND)/hour for tandem bikes; $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND)/day for standard bikes.
Rental Locations: Stalls near Xuan Huong Lake, Yersin Park, or hotels like MerPerle Dalat.
Duration: 1–3 hours for lake loops; full day for countryside rides.
Tip: Stay on designated paths; book through hotels for quality bikes.
Eco-friendly electric shuttles are emerging in Da Lat’s tourist areas, offering quiet, sustainable transport for short distances, especially around Tuyen Lam Lake or resorts.
Price: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) per ride, often free within resorts like CEREJA Hotel.
Availability: Limited to tourist zones and select resorts.
Highlights: Emission-free, ideal for eco-conscious travelers.
Tip: Check with your hotel for complimentary shuttle services.
Our curated tours combine these transport methods with Da Lat’s top attractions, offering a seamless way to explore. All include transportation, English-speaking guides, and entrance fees:
Half-Day City Explorer Tour ($40–$60 per person)
Walk Xuan Huong Lake’s promenade, ride Xanh SM to Da Lat Night Market ($1–$2 fare), and visit Crazy House ($3–$4). Includes coffee at Thuy Ta ($1–$2).
Full-Day Adventure and Culture Tour ($70–$90 per person)
Use GrabCar ($1.16–$2 for short trips) to visit Langbiang Mountain ($2–$3), Datanla Waterfall ($2), and Truc Lam Zen Monastery ($6–$7 cable car). Includes lunch with banh canh ($0.80–$1.50).
Private Romantic Lakeside Tour ($80–$120 per person, minimum 2 people)
Enjoy a tandem bike ride ($2–$4/hour) and swan pedal boating ($2–$3) at Xuan Huong Lake, with a Xanh SM ride ($1–$2) to Valley of Love ($3–$4). Includes a picnic and love locks ($1–$3).
Eco-Friendly Countryside Tour ($60–$80 per person)
Use electric shuttles ($1–$3) around Tuyen Lam Lake, visit Biofresh Strawberry Farm ($2), and explore K’Ho coffee farms ($3–$5 tasting). Includes com lam lunch ($2–$4).
Multi-Day Highland Discovery ($150–$250 per person)
Combine Xanh SM taxis, xe om ($0.80–$2), and walking to explore Da Lat Market, Linh Phuoc Pagoda (free), and Cau Dat Tea Hill ($25–$35) over 2–3 days. Includes accommodation at MerPerle Dalat ($80–$150/night).
Prices include guides, transfers, activities, and meals/snacks as specified. Group discounts for 10+ travelers. Book now for seasonal promotions!
Da Lat’s compact layout and cool climate make it ideal for diverse exploration methods, from walking its scenic paths to zipping around in eco-friendly Xanh SM taxis. The ward’s tech-driven transport, led by Xanh SM’s 37.41% market share and Grab’s widespread availability, offers convenience and sustainability, with Xanh SM reducing 150 million kg of CO2 emissions in 2024. Traditional taxis and xe om provide local flavor, while bikes and shuttles cater to leisurely or eco-conscious travelers. Tripadvisor reviews praise Da Lat’s “walkable center” and “reliable taxis” but note occasional navigation issues with Grab; our tours include GPS-guided routes for ease. The ward’s proximity to attractions like Datanla Waterfall and Tuyen Lam Lake enhances its appeal as a base for exploration.
The dry season (November–April) is perfect for walking, cycling, and outdoor taxi rides, with clear skies and mild weather. The Da Lat Flower Festival (biennial, late December) adds vibrancy but increases crowds. The rainy season (May–October) offers lush scenery; use tech taxis or morning walks to avoid showers. Early mornings (6:00–8:00 AM) or late afternoons (4:00–6:00 PM) minimize congestion.
Plan Transport: Download Xanh SM and Grab apps before arrival; ensure a Vietnamese SIM or Wi-Fi for bookings.
Negotiate Fares: Confirm xe om prices upfront; use Grab for fixed fares to avoid haggling.
Stay Safe: Wear helmets on GrabBike or xe om; use Xanh SM’s S2S system for enhanced safety.
Pack Smart: Bring a light jacket for cool evenings, sturdy shoes for walking, and small VND notes (10,000–50,000) for taxis or rentals.
Avoid Peak Hours: Book taxis outside rush hours (7:00–9:00 AM, 4:00–6:00 PM) to avoid surcharges.
Join a Guided Tour: Legend Travel Group’s tours combine transport modes with expert navigation, addressing Tripadvisor’s navigation concerns and ensuring a seamless experience.
Ready to explore Da Lat’s highlands? Legend Travel Group makes it effortless:
Choose Your Method: Opt for walking, tech taxis, bikes, or a mix via our tour options.
Browse Tours: Explore our curated packages on this page (right or below).
Book Seamlessly: Secure your spot with a small deposit and enjoy free cancellations up to 24 hours before departure.
Discover Da Lat: Our guides ensure a vibrant, hassle-free journey through Lam Dong.
Book Now and let Legend Travel Group unlock Da Lat’s enchanting exploration options!
Enhance your journey with these highlights, easily added to our tours:
Xuan Huong Lake: Enjoy a sunset stroll or coffee ($1–$2), 1 km from Da Lat Market.
Da Lat Night Market: Savor banh canh ($0.80–$1.50) and shop for K’Ho textiles ($10–$25), 1 km away.
Crazy House: Explore surreal architecture ($3–$4 entry), 1.3 km away.
Langbiang Mountain: Trek for panoramic views ($2–$3 entry), 12 km away.
Da Lat offers a vibrant array of exploration methods, from eco-friendly Xanh SM taxis and Grab rides to romantic walks around Xuan Huong Lake and adventurous xe om trips. With its cool climate and scenic beauty, this Lam Dong ward is a playground for travelers seeking both modern convenience and local charm. Legend Travel Group’s Da Lat Tours seamlessly blend these transport options with Da Lat’s cultural and natural wonders, ensuring a sustainable Da Lat Travel experience that’s unforgettable. Don’t just explore Da Lat—experience its heart! Browse our featured tours and book your highland journey today!
Ready to discover Da Lat’s wonders? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and navigate Lam Dong with ease!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources:
Da Lat Travel Information: vietnam.travel, dalattrip.com, vietnamtourism.org.vn
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