Planning a trip to Vietnam and wondering about the best ways to get around? This guide will help you discover how to travel in Vietnam by air, land, and water, ensuring you make the most of your adventure. (Ba Be Lake, Ba Be National Park)
Vietnam, with its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, is a top travel destination. To fully immerse yourself in this captivating country, understanding your Vietnam transport options is essential. From bustling metropolises to serene waterways, here’s a comprehensive guide on the most popular ways to travel in Vietnam.
1. How to Travel in Vietnam by Air
Air travel is the most practical option for time-constrained adventurers in Vietnam. While a train journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City takes about 30 hours, a flight takes only 1 to 2 hours, giving you more time to explore.
Domestic flights in Vietnam are budget-friendly, with numerous daily flights connecting top destinations. Major airlines include Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, Bamboo Airways, Vietravel Airlines, and Pacific Airlines. Popular routes include flights to Nha Trang, flights from Hanoi to Hue, and flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang.
2. How to Travel in Vietnam by Land
2.1. By Train
Train travel in Vietnam offers relaxation and scenic views, making it a favorite among travelers. The 2,600-kilometer railway links the North and South, passing through beautiful landscapes. Trains offer soft, hard, and sleeper classes, and tickets can be bought at stations or online. Children under 6 travel free, and those aged 6 to 10 get a 25% discount. Popular routes include Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang and Hanoi to Ninh Binh.
2.2. By Bus
Buses are a budget-friendly and popular mode of transportation in Vietnam. Public bus fares are very low, with inner-city trips costing about VND 7,000 ($0.3) and day trips around VND 50,000 ($2). Long-distance buses, like those from Hanoi to Ha Long Bay or Hoi An to Hue, start from VND 150,000 ($6.5).
2.3. By Car
Car rentals offer comfort and flexibility, allowing you to adjust your itinerary on the fly. Rental costs range from $60 to $150 per day, plus fuel. Tourist hubs offer car-and-driver packages for added convenience.
2.4. By Motorbike
Motorbikes are Vietnam’s preferred mode of transport. Rentals range from VND 150,000 to 300,000/day ($6.5 – $13). For safety, always wear a helmet and park in guarded areas.
2.5. By Taxi
Taxis offer control over your schedule and are suitable for city travel. Choose reputable taxi companies, research fares, and note the driver’s details in case you leave belongings behind.
2.6. By Cyclo
Cyclos are a nostalgic and relaxing way to see cities like Saigon, Hanoi, and Hue. This slow-paced, swaying journey offers a unique perspective on the bustling streets.
2.7. By Bicycle
Cycling is ideal for exploring rural areas. Rentals are available at hotels and travel agencies, with options for longer tours from companies like Vietnam Cycling and Indochina Bike Tours.
3. How to Travel in Vietnam by Water
3.1. By Cruise
Cruises in Vietnam, especially in Ha Long Bay, Lan Ha Bay, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc, offer a blend of relaxation and adventure. Popular options include the Mekong Delta cruise and Ha Long Bay overnight cruise.
3.2. By Boat
Vietnam’s winding rivers, especially the Mekong River, are perfect for boat travel. Organized day cruises are available from Ho Chi Minh City, Nha Trang, Danang, Hue, and Ba Be Lake. Boat routes also connect to islands like Phu Quoc, Nha Trang Bay, Cham Islands, and Halong Bay.
Conclusion
Vietnam offers diverse transportation options, from air travel and train journeys to bus routes, motorbike tours, and scenic cruises. This comprehensive guide on how to travel in Vietnam ensures you navigate the country with ease, experiencing its cultural vibrancy, breathtaking scenery, and warm hospitality. Whether soaring above iconic landscapes or gliding along waterways, your adventure in Vietnam will be unforgettable. Enhance your stay with Vinpearl’s luxurious hotels and resorts, and explore the entertainment paradise of VinWonders for extra excitement.
