Wondering how to get around Vietnam? Discover the best ways of getting around Vietnam in 2025-2026 – flights, trains, buses, motorbikes, ferries, and more.
Vietnam stretches over 1,600 kilometers from the northern border with China down to the Mekong Delta in the south. Its long, narrow geography and diverse terrain—from misty mountains to bustling cities and tropical islands—make transportation a central part of any travel experience. For first-time visitors, one of the most common questions is: How do I get around Vietnam? The answer depends on your budget, timeframe, and travel style.
In this detailed guide, we’ll cover all the major ways of getting around Vietnam: domestic flights, trains, buses, motorbikes, private cars, ferries, and more. Each option has its own advantages and challenges, and many travelers find the best experiences come from combining different modes of transport.
1. Domestic Flights – Best for Long Distances

Vietnam is a long country, and flying is often the fastest way to cover large distances. For example, the trip from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City spans nearly 1,700 kilometers and takes just over two hours by plane but more than 30 hours by train or bus.
- Airports and Airlines: Vietnam’s main airports are in Hanoi (Noi Bai), Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat), Da Nang and Van Don (Quang Ninh). Other regional airports like Hue, Nha Trang (Cam Ranh), Dong Hoi, and Phu Quoc make it easy to connect to smaller destinations.
- Airlines: Vietnam Airlines (flag carrier, full service), VietJet Air and Bamboo Airways (budget and mid-range carriers).
- Pros: Saves time, frequent promotions make flights affordable, wide coverage of domestic routes.
- Cons: Delays during peak travel seasons, additional travel time to/from airports.
When to choose flights:
- Traveling North to South (or vice versa).
- Reaching island destinations like Phu Quoc or Con Dao.
- Limited time and need to maximize sightseeing.
2. Trains in Vietnam – Scenic, Cultural, and Upgraded

Trains are a classic way of getting around Vietnam, offering a more immersive and scenic journey compared to flying. The country’s main line is the “Reunification Express,” which runs from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City with stops in major cities like Hue, Da Nang, and Nha Trang.
The Reunification Express
- A symbolic route connecting the North and South, with a journey that takes around 30+ hours end to end.
- Overnight sleeper trains allow travelers to save on hotel costs while enjoying Vietnam’s changing landscapes.
Hanoi to Sapa Train
One of the most famous train journeys in Vietnam is the overnight route from Hanoi to Lao Cai, the gateway to Sapa.
- Options range from standard Vietnam Railways carriages to luxury private cabins operated by companies like Victoria Express or Sapaly.
- Travelers wake up to breathtaking mountain views before continuing by bus or private transfer to Sapa town.
Jinxin Train Hanoi – Dong Hoi
Launched recently, the Jinxin train Vietnam offers a modern upgrade to the traditional route.
- Runs from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, the gateway to Phong Nha–Ke Bang National Park.
- Features upgraded interiors, better seating, and amenities aimed at young and adventurous travelers heading to Quang Binh’s caves.
The Vietage Train Da Nang – Quy Nhon
Vietnam’s newest luxury rail experience, The Vietage by Anantara, runs six hours along the central coast.
- Limited to 12 seats in a beautifully designed carriage.
- Includes gourmet meals, drinks, Wi-Fi, spa treatments, and panoramic views.
- A premium choice for travelers looking to combine comfort with scenic travel.
Pros of trains: Safer than buses, cultural experience, eco-friendly, chance to meet locals.
Cons: Slower than flights, variable comfort depending on class and operator.
When to choose trains:
- For scenic journeys like Da Nang–Hue, Hanoi–Sapa, or Da Nang–Quy Nhon.
- When comfort and experience matter as much as speed.
3. Buses & Minivans – Affordable & Flexible

Buses remain one of the most common ways of getting around Vietnam for locals and budget travelers. Vietnam has a vast network of sleeper buses, minivans, and open-tour coaches that connect nearly every city and tourist hub.
- Types of buses:
- Sleeper buses with reclining seats for overnight travel.
- Luxury minivans/limousines offering more space and fewer passengers.
- Open-tour buses that allow travelers to hop on/off between major tourist cities.
- Popular routes:
- Hanoi–Sapa (5–6 hours by luxury minivan).
- Hanoi – Halong (2.5 hours by luxury van).
- Hanoi – Ninh Binh (2 hours by luxury van).
- Da Nang–Hoi An (1 hour by shuttle).
- Ho Chi Minh City–Mekong Delta (2–3 hours).
Pros: Inexpensive, frequent departures, connect remote areas.
Cons: Can be crowded, safety concerns with some operators.
Tips: Always book through reputable companies like Futa Bus or The Sinh Tourist. Avoid buying last-minute tickets from touts at bus stations.
4. Motorbikes & Scooters – Vietnam’s Iconic Adventure

Vietnam is often called the “kingdom of motorbikes,” and renting a scooter is one of the most memorable ways of getting around Vietnam.
- City exploration: Scooters are the fastest way to move around congested cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
- Adventure rides:
- Ha Giang Loop in the far north—one of the most spectacular motorbike routes in Asia.
- Hue–Hoi An via Hai Van Pass—a coastal road made famous by Top Gear.
Pros: Ultimate freedom, flexibility to stop anywhere, affordable rentals.
Cons: Heavy traffic, safety risks, need for an international driving permit (IDP) and insurance.
Advice: Suitable only for experienced riders. For beginners, consider hiring a motorbike tour with a local driver (“easy rider” style).
5. Taxis, Ride-Hailing, and Private Cars

For those who prefer convenience and safety, taxis and ride-hailing apps are reliable in most major cities.
- Taxis: Stick with reputable companies like Xanh SM, Vinasun, Futa Taxi or Mai Linh. Always insist on using the meter.
- Ride-hailing apps: Grab, Gojek, and Be are widely available for motorbikes and cars.
- Private cars with driver: Popular for families, groups, and day trips to destinations like traditional villages around Hanoi or the Mekong Delta.
Pros: Safe, comfortable, air-conditioned, no need to navigate traffic yourself.
Cons: More expensive than public transport.
Best for: Airport transfers, day trips, group travel.
>> If you like the comfort of a private car, Vietnam private trips are the perfect choice.
6. Boats & Ferries – Essential for Islands and the Mekong

Vietnam’s coastline and river systems mean water transport is often part of the journey.
- Island ferries:
- Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Island cruises.
- Speedboats from Cai Rong to Quan Lan or Co To Island.
- Ferries to Phu Quoc and Con Dao.
- Mekong Delta: Traditional wooden boats navigate floating markets and river channels.
- Tourist boats: Sunset cruises in Hoi An, overnight luxury cruises in Ha Long Bay.
Pros: Scenic, unique cultural experience.
Cons: Dependent on weather and sea conditions.
7. Cycling & Walking – Slow Travel at Its Best
Some of Vietnam’s best memories come from exploring at a slower pace.
- Cycling: Hoi An, Hue, and Ninh Binh are perfect for bicycle rides through rice paddies and villages. Many hotels offer free bike rentals.
- Walking: Old Quarter in Hanoi, Hoi An Ancient Town, and Hue’s Imperial City are best explored on foot.
Pros: Eco-friendly, immersive, budget-friendly.
Cons: Limited range, weather dependent.
8. Practical Tips for Getting Around Vietnam
- Booking tickets: Use platforms or local travel specialist lake Indochina Charm Travel for flights, trains, and buses.
- Travel apps: Grab for taxis, Google Maps for navigation, and MoMo for cashless payments.
- Language: Learn basic Vietnamese phrases to ease communication.
- Safety: Keep belongings secure, especially on buses and trains.
- Timing: Book transport in advance during Tet (Vietnamese New Year) and peak summer.
Conclusion for Vietnam Transportation 2025-2026 Updates
There’s no single answer to the question “How do I get around Vietnam?”—because the best option depends on your travel style.
- Fast & practical: Domestic flights.
- Scenic & cultural: Trains (especially Hanoi–Sapa, the Jinxin train, or the Vietage).
- Budget-friendly: Buses and minivans.
- Adventurous: Motorbike loops.
- Convenient: Ride-hailing apps and private cars.
- Authentic & slow-paced: Boats, cycling, and walking.
For the best experience, mix and match these transport methods. Take a flight from Hanoi to Hue, a scenic train to Da Nang, a motorbike ride over Hai Van Pass, and end with a cruise in Ha Long Bay or ferry to Phu Quoc. That’s the beauty of getting around Vietnam—the journey is as rewarding as the destination.