40 Iconic Types Of Taxis From Around The World   


 

Though more expensive than public transport, taxis are the most preferred means of transport while moving around in most cities. There are iconic types of taxis that people around the world prefer to use because they are convenient, flexible, and hustle-free. 

Back in the day, people would stand on the streets and raise their arms to hail taxis. For this reason, the vehicles had to be easily recognizable and so most cities had a uniform color or feature that made taxis stand out from the rest of the cars. In London for example, cabs are black while in New York City the color is yellow.

Getting a cab nowadays is less of a hustle, thanks to the many taxi apps on smart gadgets whereby just by tapping, a taxi will find you wherever you are. Taking a taxi allows one to enjoy the luxury of having a car take you from point A to B with less travel time because the drivers know the fastest routes. Furthermore, they drop you off at your destination’s doorstep, unlike buses that leave you at the bus stop, thus having to find your way to where you are going.

The best part is there is no need to worry about where to park your car. It’s A Taxi! Another bonus is you get to learn about the area’s history and culture if you ask the driver the right questions.  Here are 40 iconic types of taxis from around the world.  

1. The Yellow Cabs Of New York City

Yellow cabs have been a symbol of New York City for many decades and are a significant part of the city’s transportation system. These iconic Yellow cabs can be hailed on the street by raising your hand or found at designated taxi stands throughout the city.

They use a meter to calculate the fare rates that are standardized and depend on time and distance traveled.  With the heavy traffic in this city, the taxi drivers know the fastest routes.

While in this busy city, when you hail a taxi and one pulls over, hop right in before someone else does. They say you are not a New Yorker until you have stolen a cab from someone who needs it more. 

2. New York Water Taxis

Still in NYC, the only taxi you can take and be sure not to get stuck in traffic is the water taxi. Whether moving from Jersey to Manhattan or across the East River to Brooklyn or Queens, the water taxis will get you there very fast. Other popular stops include Battery Park, Times Square, Brooklyn Bridge, and Governor’s Island.

Another advantage of using these taxis is the opportunity for wonderful sightseeing along the East River and Hudson River. One gets to enjoy breathtaking views of the city’s skyline and landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty and other iconic sites.

3. London Black Cab   

Photo by JJ Ying on Unsplash

Cherished by both locals and tourists alike, London Black Cabs are not only a means of transport but also a symbol of London’s history and cultural heritage. The cars are a familiar sight on the streets of London, U.K., and are known for their unique design, spacious interiors, and high level of accessibility for passengers.  

Their drivers have an in-depth knowledge of the city and can take passengers to their destination efficiently, making them an essential and iconic part of London’s transportation system. 

4. Mumbai’s Padmini Taxi 

I, Greg O’Beirne, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Padmini is a vintage car that was popular for its affordable price, spacious interior, and easy cost of maintenance. It was largely used in Mumbai India as a taxi and was a symbol of the city. Sadly though, the vehicles were phased out, but a few Padmini taxis are remaining.

These taxis are a nostalgic reminder of the city’s history for both locals and tourists in Mumbai. 

5. Munich’s Sleek Taxis 

stux, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

In Germany, taxis are clean, comfortable, and efficient high-end sleek vehicles like Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen, and BMW. They are notably cream with a taxi sign on top. Like with most taxis, when the taxi sign is on it means that the taxi is available and ready to pick up passengers, but when the light is off it means the vehicle is unavailable.  

The fares for Munich taxis are based on a metered system that has a surcharge for night rides. 

6. The Mombasa Tuk-Tuks 

Kevoyugi, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

The Kenyan coastal town of Mombasa is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. The city has thousands of small three-wheeled vehicles that are popularly referred to as Tuk-tuks. Though the rides can be a bit shaky, they are an affordable way of moving around as compared to taking regular car taxis. 

Tuktuks can cut sharp corners and fit into spaces so small that a normal car wouldn’t. There are no meters in these and the best way is to bargain the cost of your ride with the driver before boarding. 

7. The Viennese Fiaker 

Fiakers are horse-drawn carriages that are used as taxis and tourist attractions in Vienna, Austria. It’s one of the most delightful ways of experiencing the city’s beauty. The carriages are large, elegant, and beautifully decorated with a covered top that is meant to protect passengers from the rain and sun. 

Tourists from all over the world enjoy taking Fiaker rides to explore the city’s charming streets, historic sites, and grand architecture. It offers a nostalgic and romantic experience that reminds one of a past era. It is a cultural symbol that holds a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors.  

8. Helicopter Taxi In Rio De Janeiro 

Rio de Janeiro is one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and there’s no better way to see it than from a bird’s eye view. A helicopter taxi is a great way to get around the city and take in all of the sights within a short period.  

Christ the Redeemer, Sugarloaf Mountain, the Copacabana and Ipanema beaches, the city’s skyline, the Maracanã Stadium, the Botanical Garden, and the Tijuca National Forest are some of the attractions that can be seen in one helicopter ride.  

9. Rio De Janeiro’s Jeep Taxis

Another unique and memorable way to experience Rio de Janeiro is by taking the Jeep Taxis which are popularly known as Jeepinhos. These colorful open-air vehicles are a unique and iconic part of the city’s landscape and are a popular way to get around the city on sightseeing missions.

Painted yellow and red with colorful flags and banners, these jeeps can seat up to six passengers and are readily available all over the city. The drivers are friendly and knowledgeable.

10. Venice Boat Taxi 

In Venice, Italy, boat taxis are a practical and fast way of traveling and accessing numerous destinations due to the city’s unique canal system. These motorized boats are also known as the motoscafi and are among the country’s many tourist attractions thanks to their sleek and elegant designs.  

Though a bit more pricey than cars, these boats provide passengers with beautiful views of Venice’s beautiful canals and historic buildings. The water taxis come in various styles and sizes with some carrying bigger groups, while others fit private or smaller gatherings. 

11. Gondolas Of Vernice 

Not to be confused with motorized water taxis, Gondolas are traditional, flat-bottomed, and hand-rowed boats that are a popular and iconic mode of transportation in Venice’s intricate canal system. They are mainly used for leisurely and romantic rides and are operated by skilled gondoliers who propel the boats using a long oar. 

Gondolas are still widely used for tourism purposes and are an essential part of the Venetian cultural experience. Visitors to Venice often take gondola rides to explore the city’s picturesque canals and enjoy the romantic ambiance. 

12. Sydney Water Taxi 

Dinkum, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons

Moving through the beautiful harbors and waterways of Australia, Sydney Water Taxis is a popular mode of transportation that provides a unique and scenic way to travel across the city. They are usually comfortable and equipped with amenities to ensure a pleasant journey. 

Providing convenient access to locations that are not easily accessible by other means, these boats are a convenient option for travelers who want to explore different parts of Sydney. Some of the attractions include the breathtaking views of the iconic Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay, Darling Harbor, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, and the city’s skyline from the water. 

13. Muscat White And Orange Taxis 

Photo by Gavin Lesly on Unsplash

In Oman cities like Muscat and Salalah, you will find local taxis that operate within the city. These taxis are mostly sedan cars that are painted orange and/or white. Although fares are metered and regulated, it is always good to talk to the driver and negotiate before boarding to avoid misunderstandings. 

14. The Shikara Of Kashmir In India 

A Shikara is a traditional wooden boat that is found in the picturesque region of Kashmir, India. These colorful, handcrafted taxi boats are a symbol of the serene beauty of the Dal Lake, Nigeen Lake, and other water bodies in the Kashmir Valley.  

Shikaras are used for transporting people and goods across the lakes and are a means of livelihood for the local people. Tourists also use them for sightseeing tours for the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding landscapes, floating gardens, and the distant Himalayan mountains. 

15. Hong Kong’s Red Taxis

Photo by Jona on Unsplash

Hong Kong is known for its red taxis that provide convenient and efficient transport for locals and tourists alike. The silver-roofed cars are an iconic symbol of the city and are a convenient and affordable way to get around. 

16. Santorini’s Donkey Taxis 

Rennett Stowe from USA, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Overlooking the Aegean Sea, the beautiful Greek island of Santorini has used donkeys as taxis since way back. Though nowadays they have other modern means of transport like cable cars, riding a donkey taxi provides a unique experience and offers breathtaking views of the caldera, the sea, and the charming towns of Santorini.

The people take donkey rides to move up and down the cliffs of the island’s towns because the narrow, winding pathways and steep staircases can be challenging to navigate on foot.

17. Charleston’s Bike Taxis

In South Carolina, bike taxis are a fun, eco-friendly, and affordable way to get around the historical town of Charleston. The black and yellow bike taxis have very friendly operators who have a wealth of knowledge about the town.

The comfortable and spacious pedicabs will allow you to experience a scenic ride through the historic streets of Charleston including the colorful rainbow row.

Read fun facts about South Carolina here.

18. Canada’s H2O Taxi In Victoria Port

Joe Mabel, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

While in Canada, water taxis are a great way to get around Victoria Harbour and the surrounding waterways. They are a fun and scenic way to travel and are available on demand meaning that they do not have a schedule like buses. 

The water taxis can take you to the Inner Harbour which is the heart of Port Victoria. It has many popular attractions like the Royal BC Museum. You can also make a trip to Chinatown, the fisherman’s wharf for seafood lovers, and the bays near this port for historical sites. Don’t miss an opportunity to watch the whales swim. 

19. Nurburgring Taxi 

Located in Nürburg, Germany, the Nürburgring Nordschleife is a world-famous racetrack known for being one of the most challenging thanks to its more than 20 kilometers distance, the numerous twists, turns, elevation changes, and varying road surfaces. 

When it’s not the racing season, speed lovers have an opportunity to visit and experience a high-speed lap around the circuit as passengers in specially prepared vehicles driven by professional racing drivers. The Nürburgring Taxi service drivers are skilled at navigating the demanding track at high speeds, providing passengers with an adrenaline-filled and unforgettable experience. 

20. Pedicabs In England

Apart from the famous black cabs of London, England also has environmentally friendly human-powered pedicabs. The three-wheeled cycles that resemble rickshaws are mostly used for short distances, giving a unique experience to travelers. 

Fares for pedicab rides are negotiated between the passenger and the cyclist before starting the ride because the pricing is not standardized thus helping avoid any misunderstandings at the end of the trip. 

21. Tricycles Taxis In The Philippines 

Known as traysikad, trisikad, sikad, or padyak, these taxis are a popular mode of transportation in the Philippines. They are made up of a motorcycle or scooter attached to an extra car that can accommodate passengers. Padyaks are unique and widely used for short-distance travel within towns, villages, and cities.  

These tricycles are used everywhere, in towns, villages, and even residential places. In flooded areas, they do not get stuck in the water. 

22. Goreme’s Hot Air Balloon Taxis

Found in the Cappadocia region of Turkey, Goreme is a town that has stunning landscapes, unique rock formations, and historical sites. Hot air balloon rides are the most favorable when one wants to experience the area’s breathtaking views from a bird’s eye view.

Though not typical taxis, these hot air balloons are operated by licensed pilots who guide the flights and ensure the safety of passengers who are mostly tourists visiting the area. Sunrise flights are the most popular and it’s advisable to book because they fill up fast during peak season.

23. Black And Yellow Cabs In Barcelona

Taxis in Barcelona are painted yellow and black with a fluorescent green light in the window. They are many and readily available. The drivers are friendly and knowledgeable plus they keep their cars tidy, cozy, and well-maintained.

They can be hailed on the street or booked in advance and peak seasons like the weekends and holidays, the rates are higher than normal times.

24. Boda Bodas In Kenya

Jamil201, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Boda Bodas are motorbike taxis used for short trips in Nairobi and most of East Africa. They were initially used to ferry passengers across borders in Kenya, Uganda, and other East African countries and that’s how they got their name.

Though safety is not guaranteed, Boda Bodas are flexible, affordable, and efficient. They not only carry people but also goods, and have contributed to the economy by employing the youth who ride them.

25. Snowmobile Taxis In Canada

New Brunswick Tourism, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Snowmobile taxis are a practical way to get around while in Canada during the winter months, especially in remote areas where there are no roads. These vehicles are modified to carry passengers and cargo with enclosed cabs to protect passengers from the cold weather and large baskets on the back for carrying luggage.  

The taxis are also equipped with radios so that they can communicate with each other and with the police and other emergency services. They are fun and exciting designed to conquer the winter wilderness. 

26. Coco Taxis In Havana

Mariordo, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In Havana, Cuba, there are three-wheeled taxis that look like open coconut shells with dome-like roofs that protect from the sun and rain. These unique and colorful coco taxis are a combination of a motorcycle and a small car and are powered by small engines.  

Coco taxis carry up to 3 passengers in the small compartment at the back with the driver sitting in front, operating the vehicle like a motorcycle. They are a convenient option for small groups and are affordable.  

27. Oman Camel Taxis

Andries Oudshoorn, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In Oman, mostly in the desert, camels have been used for transportation to take tourists on desert safaris. Though not used as taxis in the same way as cars, camel rides in Oman are a tourism activity in the desert, where tourists get to experience the traditional way of transportation in the region. 

For camel rides, always wear comfortable clothing and shoes because these rides can be bumpy and dusty. Remember to bring a hat and sunglasses. 

28. Taxi Parisien 

Paris is known for its extensive public transportation system that includes buses, trains, the Paris Métro, and others. There are also traditional taxis that are black with a white “Taxi Parisien” sign on the roof and are mostly found at designated taxi ranks throughout the city. One can also find them at major transportation hubs like airports, train stations, and popular tourist areas.  

Taxi Parisiens have a metered fare system that calculates based on distance traveled and time spent in the taxi. 

29. Bike Taxi in Paris 

Found near tourist attractions and many other places in Paris, bike taxis, popularly known as vélotaxis are used for transportation within the city. These bikes have a sidecar attached to them which carries about two passengers. They are human-powered and thus friendly to the environment.

30. Traditional Abra Boats in Dubai  

Imre Solt, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Dubai is one of the fastest developing places in the world today. Nevertheless, Traditional Abra boats are still used for crossing Dubai Creek, which divides the city into the historical districts of Deira and Bur Dubai.  

These boats are an affordable and efficient mode of transportation between the two sides of the city and operate daily from early morning until late at night.  

31. Horse-drawn Buggies In Greece 

In some parts of Greece, like the islands and the countryside where there are historical or scenic areas, horse-drawn buggies are a popular way of getting around. These rides are meant for tourists exploring certain parts of the city or just enjoying leisure rides through the picturesque landscapes.  

Horse-drawn buggies are a great way to move around but be patient because these rides are slow. 

32. South Korea Orange Taxis 

Photo by Bundo Kim on Unsplash

Known for professionalism, safety, and quality service, orange taxis in South Korea are regular taxis that are found throughout the country and have orange signs on the roof with lights that indicate when they are available.  

Korean taxi drivers adhere to traffic rules, but most drivers don’t speak fluent English. These taxis are widely used by both locals and tourists. 

33. Bali Bluebird Taxi 

Aero7, CC BY-SA 2.5 MY, via Wikimedia Commons

Bluebird Taxis are popular and reputable cabs that operate in Bali, Indonesia, offering reliable and safe transportation services. Bluebird Taxis are recognized for their blue color and the bird logo on the side of the vehicles. 

They have modern vehicles that are well-maintained, air-conditioned, and equipped with meters. Many Bluebird Taxi drivers can communicate in basic English, making it easier for international travelers to convey their destinations. 

34. Sydney Silver Service Taxis 

In Australia, there are high-end premium taxis that are silver in color, and designed to offer a high level of comfort, professionalism, and luxury compared to standard taxis. They are often used by those who prefer a more refined and comfortable travel experience. 

The drivers are well-trained, courteous, and with excellent customer service, thereby providing premium services to passengers. These cars offer additional amenities such as wet wipes, bottled water, newspapers, and charging ports for electronic devices. 

35. Havana Vintage Car Taxi 

Havana has lots of classic American cars that are used as taxis and are a popular tourist attraction. Most people enjoy riding these vintage vehicles to experience the city’s unique atmosphere and enjoy the culture and history of Havana. 

Vintage car taxis can be hailed on the street, or booked through a tour company. In both cases, it is important to bargain with the driver for the fare before the trip. The cars are not always in the best condition, so the ride could be bumpy. Some cars do not have air conditioning, which could be a problem during the summer months.

36. Cycle Rickshaws In Moscow

ВиКо, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Taxis in Moscow and most of Russia are affordable. Cycle rickshaws are even cheaper and are a popular form of transportation in the city, especially among tourists moving around the city. They are more affordable than regular taxis and can be a fun and unique way to see the city. The cabs can be hailed on the street or booked in advance.  

37. Capri’s Convertible Cabs 

Gil, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Known for its stunning landscapes, picturesque towns, and vibrant culture, Capri is one of the few places where one can get to ride in a convertible taxi. It is a memorable way to explore the Italian island’s beauty and charm, and luckily many of the convertible cab drivers here are knowledgeable about the island’s history, culture, and attractions.

The open-top design of the cabs allows passengers to enjoy panoramic views of Capri’s breathtaking landscapes, including its rugged coastline, azure waters, and charming towns.

38. Bicitaxi in Mexico City

In areas with heavy traffic or narrow roads within Mexico City, bicitaxis (bicycle taxis) or pedicabs, are commonly used to transport people. To improve air quality, reduce emissions, and enhance passenger safety, Mexico City authorities have encouraged the replacement of older taxis with newer, more efficient, and eco-friendly means like the bicitaxi which are considered environmentally friendly since they produce no emissions and rely solely on human power.

Pedicabs are more affordable than traditional taxis and are operated by local cyclists who know the city well thus offering insight into the area’s history and culture.

39. Mexico City Volkswagen Beetle Taxi

Still in Mexico, another iconic type of taxi is the Volkswagen Beetle taxi. They have been a nostalgic part of Mexico City’s urban landscape for decades, thanks to their compact and durable design. These cars are a popular choice for taxi operators. While the classic Volkswagen Beetle taxis have been largely replaced, they remain a nostalgic symbol of Mexico City’s past and are fondly remembered by both locals and visitors.

40. Cairo White Taxi

Roland Unger, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

In Cairo, Egypt, white taxis are common within the city and are readily available throughout the city, at taxi stands, major transportation hubs, hotels, and busy areas. These cabs not only have a taxi sign on the roof but also have a taxi logo or sticker on the sides.

Cairo’s traffic congestion can mess you up so it is important to factor in potential delays when planning your trips by taxi. The cabs use meters to calculate fares, so the amount increases as the taxi covers more distance or spends more time in traffic.

Those are the 40 iconic types of taxis from around the world. Taxis will always be a part of our everyday lives, providing a convenient and reliable means of transportation for residents and visitors alike. Enjoy your next taxi ride and take note of the features that give the vehicle its charm.

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