Vietnam is a long, beautifully diverse country stretching over 1,650 kilometers from north to south. This geography means that planning your Vietnam transportation is a key part of designing your trip. Luckily, there are plenty of options to suit different budgets, timeframes, and travel styles. Whether you want speed, scenery, budget-friendliness, or adventure, here’s a guide to getting around Vietnam.
Pros: By far the fastest way to cover long distances, like Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City (approx. 2 hours flight vs. 30+ hours by train). Connects major cities and tourist hubs efficiently (Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Nha Trang, Phu Quoc, Da Lat, etc.). Multiple airlines operate domestically, including the national carrier Vietnam Airlines, and budget options like Vietjet Air and Bamboo Airways.
Cons: Generally the most expensive option (though budget fares can be found if booked early). You miss the ground-level scenery. Factor in time and cost for getting to/from airports.
Best For: Long distances (North-South), saving travel time, reaching islands like Phu Quoc quickly.
Booking: Easily booked online via airline websites or third-party sites (like Skyscanner, Google Flights). Booking in advance, especially during peak season or holidays, is recommended for better prices.
Pros: Offers a classic travel experience, often with stunning scenery – particularly along the coastal route between Hue and Da Nang (Hai Van Pass section). More comfortable and spacious than buses, with options for seats or sleeper berths (soft or hard) ideal for overnight journeys. Generally considered safer than road travel.
Cons: Significantly slower than flying. The main line runs North-South, with limited routes branching east or west. Can be noisy. Popular routes/berths sell out, so booking ahead is wise.
Best For: North-South journeys where time is less critical, enjoying the landscape, overnight travel to save on accommodation. The Hue-Da Nang route is iconic.
Booking: Possible on the official Vietnam Railways website (dsvn.vn - can be challenging for international cards/language), but easier via online platforms like Baolau or 12Go Asia, or through local travel agencies. Choose seat/berth type carefully (soft sleeper 4-berth cabins are usually preferred by tourists).
Pros: The most extensive transport network, reaching nearly every corner of the country. Very affordable. Frequent departures on popular routes. Various levels of comfort available, from basic local buses to comfortable sleeper buses and limousines.
Cons: Can be slow due to traffic and multiple stops (especially local buses). Comfort levels vary wildly. Road safety can be a concern. Sleeper berths can be cramped for taller individuals and rides can be bumpy.
Types & Booking:
Local Buses: Cheapest option for short hops within or between towns. Pay conductor onboard. Minimal comfort.
Express/Inter-provincial Buses: Connect major cities and towns. Better quality than local buses. Book at bus stations or increasingly online (Vexere is a popular Vietnamese platform, also 12Go/Baolau). Popular companies include Futa Bus (Phuong Trang), The Sinh Tourist, Hoang Long.
Sleeper Buses: Designed for long-distance/overnight travel with lie-flat or reclining berths. Standard and VIP options available. Book well in advance for popular routes.
Limousine Buses: Comfortable minibuses or vans, often with fewer seats and more amenities. Good for medium distances (e.g., Hanoi to Ninh Binh/Ha Long; HCMC to Vung Tau or Mekong Delta towns like Ben Tre). Slightly more expensive than standard buses but faster and more comfortable.
Best For: Budget travellers, reaching destinations off the main train line, medium-distance travel.
Pros: Door-to-door service, maximum comfort and privacy. Flexible – you can stop when you want (great for scenic routes like the Hai Van Pass). Good for airport transfers or families/small groups sharing costs.
Cons: The most expensive option, especially for solo travellers or long distances. You're still subject to traffic delays.
Options & Booking:
Car with Driver: Easily arranged through hotels or travel agencies for day trips, airport transfers, or multi-day hires. Agree on the price and itinerary beforehand. Drivers rarely speak much English.
Taxis: Use reputable companies like Mai Linh (green) or Vinasun (white) in major cities. Always insist the meter is used.
Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab is dominant and highly recommended. Offers fixed prices upfront for cars (GrabCar) and motorbike taxis (GrabBike), booked easily via the app. Often cheaper and more reliable than hailing street taxis.
Best For: Airport transfers, day trips requiring flexibility, travelling scenic routes at your own pace, small groups.
Pros: Offers unparalleled freedom to explore off-the-beaten-path areas. Very cheap to rent (around $5-$15 USD per day). A quintessential Vietnamese experience for some.
Cons: Significant safety risks. Vietnamese traffic is chaotic, road surfaces can be poor, and accidents are common. Requires experience, confidence, and alertness. An International Driving Permit (IDP) plus your home country's motorbike license is generally required legally. Rental scams exist (damage claims, theft). Not practical for carrying large luggage long distances.
Options & Tips:
Rental: Widely available. Thoroughly inspect the bike (brakes, lights, tires, horn) before renting, take photos/videos of any existing damage. Agree clearly on rental duration and terms. ALWAYS WEAR A HELMET. Consider renting from reputable providers with good reviews. Never leave your original passport as collateral (use copies or a deposit).
GrabBike/Xe Om: Using Grab for motorbike taxis is cheap and efficient for short city hops as a passenger. Traditional Xe Om drivers require negotiation – agree on the price before getting on.
Best For: Experienced and licensed riders comfortable with challenging traffic conditions, exploring specific regions (e.g., Ha Giang Loop, countryside), short passenger trips via GrabBike. Safety cannot be overstressed.
The best way for getting around Vietnam depends on your priorities:
Time is key? Fly between major hubs.
On a budget? Buses and trains are your friends.
Love scenery? Take the train, especially Hue-Da Nang, or hire a car/motorbike for scenic passes.
Want flexibility? Rent a motorbike (if experienced) or hire a car with a driver.
Short city trips? Grab is incredibly convenient.
No matter how you choose to travel, planning your Vietnam transportation in advance, especially during peak season, will lead to a smoother and more enjoyable journey through this incredible country.
Need help arranging seamless transport as part of your trip? Our Vietnam package tours often include comfortable and efficient transfers between destinations. Contact us here to learn more!
