Stretching over 1,800 kilometers from north to south, Vietnam is a long and diverse country where finding the best way to get around is essential for any traveler. Whether by plane, train, bus, sleeper bus, car, or motorbike, each mode of transport offers a unique and practical experience to suit different needs and budgets. Here’s a comprehensive transportation guide with my best travel tips to get around Vietnam.
For long distances, planes, sleeper buses and trains are popular choices. Sleeper buses, which operate both day and night, provide affordable and comfortable reclining seats, making them ideal for routes like Hanoi to Sapa or Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang. Trains, especially the “Reunification Express,” offer scenic journeys along the coast, with different classes of seating and sleeping arrangements. Planes will be faster but more expensive.
For shorter distances, local buses, minibuses, and ride-hailing services like Grab are widely available in cities and towns. These options are inexpensive and convenient for navigating urban areas or reaching nearby attractions. Whether traveling across the country or within a city, Vietnam’s public transport system offers practical solutions for every traveler.
In most cases booking your ticket with the 12Go app will be the easiest and cheapest option.
With more than a dozen international and domestic airports, flying is the fastest way to cover long distances in Vietnam. Airlines such as Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways offer frequent flights connecting major cities and tourist hotspots. Flying is ideal for those with limited time who want to maximize their trip. For example, I flew from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang and then from Da Nang to Hanoi with Vietnam Airlines—both flights were smooth and hassle-free.
Pros: Speed, comfort, and efficiency for long distances.
Cons: Higher cost compared to other modes of transport and requires advance planning.
Vietnam’s railway network, though not as developed as in some countries, offers a scenic way to travel, especially along the coast between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The main line, known as the “Reunification Express,” provides a range of seating options, from hard seats to soft sleepers. While I didn’t personally take the train, I enjoyed watching it pass by while sipping coffee on Hanoi’s famous Train Street.
Pros: Safety, moderate comfort, and picturesque views.
Cons: Slower than flying and schedules can sometimes be inconvenient.
Buses are the most affordable and flexible way to travel around Vietnam. The country has an extensive bus network, ranging from local services to long-distance routes, including sleeper buses. Sleeper buses are a comfortable option for overnight trips and even daytime travel. For instance, I took a sleeper bus from Hanoi to Sapa and found it surprisingly comfortable. For shorter trips, like Hanoi to Halong Bay, I used a mini-bus with regular seats, which was also very pleasant. I booked my bus tickets using the 12Go app, which is user-friendly and reliable.
Pros: Cost-effective, wide coverage, and flexible schedules.
Cons: Variable comfort levels, occasional delays, and sometimes reckless driving.
Renting a car with a driver is a convenient option, especially for families or groups. It offers flexibility to customize your itinerary and make stops along the way. Self-driving, however, is less common due to heavy traffic and unfamiliar road rules.
Pros: Comfort, flexibility, and the freedom to explore at your own pace.
Cons: Higher cost and requires some planning.
Motorbikes and scooters are the most popular modes of transport in Vietnam, providing unmatched freedom to explore both cities and the countryside. Renting a motorbike is affordable and widely available, but it’s important to have some experience, as traffic can be chaotic. For instance, I rented a scooter in Da Nang to explore Hue and Hoi An. The roads were in excellent condition, and the ride was surprisingly easy.
Pros: Total freedom, low cost, and an immersive experience.
Cons: Safety risks and requires prior riding experience in busy traffic conditions.
Boats offer a unique perspective, especially in iconic regions like Halong Bay and the Mekong Delta. While slower than other modes of transport, they provide a relaxing and scenic way to appreciate Vietnam’s natural beauty.
Getting around Vietnam is an integral part of the travel experience, offering a mix of challenges and unforgettable moments. By choosing the right mode of transport for your needs and budget, you’ll be able to fully enjoy the adventure and charm of this incredible country.
Visiting Vietnam means immersing yourself in a mosaic of cultures, landscapes, and flavors. Whether you have one week, two weeks, or three weeks, each Vietnam itinerary can be tailored to offer you an unforgettable experience. Here are some suggested itineraries to help you discover the richness of Vietnam, depending on the length of your stay.
With just one week, it’s best to focus on a specific region of Vietnam to avoid spending too much time traveling. For example, explore the north around Hanoi, the central region near Da Nang, or the south near Ho Chi Minh City. If you’re keen to visit two regions quickly, here’s a suggested itinerary:
Days 1-3: Hanoi and Halong Bay
Days 4-7: Hue and Hoi An
With two weeks, you can explore the north, center, and south of the country, immersing yourself in Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and cultures.
Days 1-4: Hanoi and Halong Bay
(Refer to the 1-week itinerary for details.)
Days 5-9: Hue and Hoi An
(Refer to the 1-week itinerary for details.)
Days 10-14: Ho Chi Minh City and the Mekong Delta
A three-week trip allows for a deeper exploration of Vietnam from north to south, including some less-visited destinations.
Days 1-5: Hanoi, Halong Bay, and Sa Pa
Days 6-10: Hue, Hoi An, and Da Nang
Days 11-15: Nha Trang and Dalat
Days 16-21: Ho Chi Minh City, Mekong Delta, and Phu Quoc Island
No matter how much time you have in Vietnam, these itineraries ensure a balance of culture, history, nature, and relaxation. Customize them to suit your pace and interests for the ultimate Vietnamese adventure.
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