City-to-City Travel Guide for Tourists in Vietnam

A red train traveling down train tracks next to a crowd of people

Vietnam is a popular travel destination known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant cities. Navigating the country is easy, with multiple transportation options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Whether you’re looking to experience Vietnam’s famous train routes, enjoy the flexibility of a car rental, or take a short flight between major cities, here’s a guide to help you plan your intercity travels in Vietnam.

1. Trains

Vietnam’s rail network spans from north to south, offering a scenic and affordable way to explore the country. The Reunification Express is the main train route, connecting Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south. Trains also connect other popular cities like Da Nang, Hue, and Nha Trang.

Benefits: Trains in Vietnam are known for their scenic views, especially along the coast from Da Nang to Hue. Traveling by train is generally safe, and sleeper options are available for longer journeys.
Cost & Duration: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes around 30–35 hours and costs approximately $30–$80, depending on the class.
Booking: Tickets can be booked at train stations, travel agencies, or online. It’s best to book in advance during peak tourist seasons.

Top Train Routes for Tourists:

Hanoi to Sapa (via Lao Cai) – Overnight train
Hanoi to Hue – Coastal views
Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City – Through central highlands

2. Buses

Buses are a cost-effective and accessible option, connecting nearly every city in Vietnam. Open-tour buses allow tourists to book multiple stops on one ticket, making them popular among backpackers.

Benefits: Buses are frequent, affordable, and run between cities and to more remote areas.
Types: There are standard buses and sleeper buses, which provide semi-reclining seats for longer trips.
Cost & Duration: Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes about 35–40 hours and costs $20–$40. Shorter trips (like from Da Nang to Hue) take 2–4 hours and cost around $5–$10.
Booking: Tickets can be purchased at bus stations or through local travel agents. Several bus companies operate, so reviews and comfort vary.

Top Bus Routes for Tourists:

Hanoi to Ha Long Bay – Scenic 4-hour ride
Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne – 4–5 hours
Hue to Da Nang – 2–3 hours coastal ride

3. Domestic Flights

Domestic flights are the fastest way to travel long distances within Vietnam. Vietnam has several reliable airlines, including Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways.

Benefits: Ideal for saving time on long routes like Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, and convenient for accessing remote locations like Phu Quoc Island.
Cost & Duration: Prices vary depending on demand but generally range from $30–$120 per flight. The flight from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, for example, takes around 2 hours.
Booking: Book through airline websites or comparison sites. Flights can be very affordable when booked in advance, though prices increase around holidays and Tet (Lunar New Year).

Top Domestic Flight Routes for Tourists:

Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City – Fastest way across the country
Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc – Direct flights to the island
Hanoi to Da Nang – Quick access to central Vietnam

4. Car Rentals and Private Transfers

For those who prefer flexibility, renting a car or hiring a private driver is a great option for exploring specific regions or remote areas. Note that in Vietnam, international visitors are generally not allowed to drive without a Vietnamese driver’s license, so hiring a car with a driver is common.

Benefits: Offers flexibility and convenience for visiting areas not easily accessible by train or bus. Ideal for exploring places like the Mekong Delta or Ha Giang.
Cost: Hiring a car with a driver costs around $60–$100 per day, depending on distance and region.
Booking: Many car rental services are available through travel agencies or hotels. Be sure to confirm prices and itinerary details in advance.

Top Car Routes for Tourists:

Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta – Flexible itinerary
Hanoi to Ha Giang Loop – Scenic mountain route
Da Nang to Hoi An – Short, scenic coastal drive

5. Ferries and Boats

Ferries and boats are commonly used to reach Vietnam’s many islands or to explore regions with extensive waterways, such as the Mekong Delta. Popular routes include ferries to Phu Quoc Island, Cat Ba Island, and boat tours through the Mekong Delta.

Benefits: Ferries are often the only way to reach certain islands, while boat tours offer a unique experience along rivers and bays.
Cost & Duration: Ferry prices vary, typically costing $10–$30 depending on the distance. For instance, ferries from Rach Gia to Phu Quoc take about 2.5 hours and cost around $15–$25.
Booking: Tickets can be booked online, through travel agencies, or at ferry terminals. Many operators run daily services.

Top Ferry and Boat Routes for Tourists:

Ha Long Bay Cruises – Scenic day or overnight cruises
Rach Gia to Phu Quoc – Gateway to the island
Can Tho to various Mekong Delta villages – Cultural boat tours

Conclusion

Vietnam offers a variety of transportation options, making it easy for tourists to tailor their travel experiences to their preferences and budget. From scenic train rides and budget-friendly buses to quick domestic flights and serene boat journeys, there’s a mode of transport for everyone. With a little planning, traveling across Vietnam’s cities and countryside can be an exciting part of your adventure.