Getting Around Vietnam

Vietnam stretches long and narrow along the South China Sea, and distances between regions can be significant.

Once you understand how transport works, getting around is efficient, affordable, and often part of the adventure itself — whether travelling between vibrant cities, coastal towns, or misty mountain landscapes.

Shared and Private Shuttles

For travel between popular destinations such as Hanoi, Hoi An, Hue, and Ho Chi Minh City, shared and private shuttles are widely used and easy to arrange.

Shared shuttles are a reliable and comfortable option for travellers who prefer simplicity.

They are pre-booked, air-conditioned, and often provide hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Routes between tourist centres are well established, making this one of the easiest ways to move around without navigating stations or language barriers.

Private shuttles or drivers offer maximum flexibility. Travellers can stop at scenic viewpoints, local cafés, or lesser-known villages along the way — particularly useful on routes like the coastal drive between Hue and Hoi An.

Advantages of a private shuttle:

• Door-to-door convenience

• Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles

• Flexible timing and personalised stops

• Ideal for scenic routes and small groups

Advantages of a shared shuttle:

• Budget-friendly

• Simple online booking

• Direct routes between major destinations

• More comfortable than local buses

Private Drivers and Transfers

Hiring a private driver is one of the most comfortable ways to explore Vietnam, especially for regional journeys or day trips.

This is particularly popular for routes such as:

• Hue to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass

• Da Nang to Hoi An

• Day trips from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay or Ninh Binh

Airport transfers are easy to arrange in all major cities.

Whether arriving into Noi Bai International Airport or Tan Son Nhat International Airport, most hotels and transport providers offer reliable pick-up services — a good option after long-haul flights or late-night arrivals.

Trains

Vietnam’s railway line runs the length of the country, connecting major cities from Hanoi in the north to Ho Chi Minh City in the south.

The Reunification Express is not a high-speed train, but it’s a scenic and comfortable way to travel longer distances.

Soft-seat and sleeper cabins are available, making overnight journeys a practical option.

Popular routes include:

• Hanoi to Hue

• Hue to Da Nang (a particularly scenic coastal stretch)

• Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City

Trains are generally safer and more comfortable than buses for long distances, though slower than flying.

Domestic Flights

Given Vietnam’s length, domestic flights are often the most efficient way to cover large distances.

Flying is ideal for routes such as:

• Hanoi to Da Nang

• Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

• Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Quoc

Vietnam has a strong network of budget airlines, and flights are frequent and relatively affordable when booked in advance.

Public Buses

Vietnam’s bus network is extensive and very affordable. Options range from local city buses to long-distance sleeper buses.

Sleeper buses are a uniquely Vietnamese experience — reclining bunks instead of seats — and are commonly used for overnight journeys between cities.

While inexpensive, buses can vary in comfort and punctuality. They are best suited for:

• Budget travellers

• Short to medium distances

• Overnight routes where saving on accommodation is a bonus

Motorbikes and Local Transport

In cities and smaller towns, motorbikes are everywhere — and for many travellers, renting one becomes part of the experience.

However, traffic in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can be intense. Riding is best left to experienced drivers.

For shorter trips, ride-hailing apps such as Grab are widely used and inexpensive.

Options include car rides and motorbike taxis, both offering quick and convenient transport.

Cross-Border Travel from Vietnam

Vietnam shares land borders with Cambodia, Laos, and China, and overland travel between these countries is relatively straightforward with the right preparation.

To Cambodia

The most popular route is from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh.

Travellers can choose between tourist buses and speedboats along the Mekong River.

• Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh – around 6–7 hours by bus

• Many services assist with border procedures

From Phnom Penh, it’s easy to continue to Siem Reap and the temples of Angkor Wat.

To Laos

Crossing into Laos is slower and more remote, but rewarding for adventurous travellers.

Common routes include:

• Hanoi to Luang Prabang (long bus journey or combination of bus and flight)

• Central Vietnam (Hue or Da Nang) to southern Laos

Expect long travel times and basic border facilities.

These routes are less developed but offer a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

To China

Travel between northern Vietnam and southern China is possible via border crossings near Lao Cai (gateway to Sapa) into Kunming.

Train and bus combinations are available, though this route is less commonly used by short-term travellers.

Practical tips for border crossings:

• Carry a valid passport and check visa requirements in advance

• Vietnam offers e-visas for many nationalities; neighbouring countries have their own rules

• US dollars are often useful for visa-on-arrival fees (especially Cambodia)

• Allow extra time — border crossings can be slow and unpredictable

• Most organised buses and shuttles assist with paperwork and logistics

Driving a rental car across borders is generally not permitted without special permits, so organised transport is usually the easiest option.

Top Places to Visit in Vietnam

Hanoi

Vietnam’s capital blends history and energy, with a maze-like Old Quarter, lakes, and French colonial architecture. It’s also the main gateway to northern highlights.

Ha Long Bay

A UNESCO-listed seascape of limestone karsts rising from emerald waters.

Best explored by overnight cruise or day trip from Hanoi.

Hoi An

A beautifully preserved trading port known for lantern-lit streets, riverside cafés, and tailor shops.

One of Vietnam’s most atmospheric destinations.

Hue

Vietnam’s former imperial capital, home to ancient citadels, royal tombs, and a slower pace of life along the Perfume River.

Ho Chi Minh City

A fast-paced southern metropolis blending modern skyscrapers with historic landmarks, markets, and a dynamic food scene.

Phu Quoc

An island escape with white-sand beaches, clear water, and a more relaxed rhythm — ideal for unwinding after travelling through the mainland.

Ninh Binh

Often called “Ha Long Bay on land,” this region features limestone cliffs, rice paddies, and river boat journeys through caves and karst formations.

Summary

Vietnam’s transport network is diverse and well developed, offering something for every style of travel.

Whether flying between regions, taking a scenic train, or crossing borders into neighbouring countries, getting around is part of the journey — and often one of the highlights.