Flight
Fastest option with stopover, usually via Guangzhou or other hubs
Train via Nanning + Guangzhou
Overland route with border crossing and high-speed trains
Train combination
Cheaper option but long journey with multiple transfers
Bus combinations
Very long route with border crossing and low comfort
Quick answer: Traveling from Hanoi to Xiamen (China) is possible by direct or connecting flight, or by train via Nanning. Flying takes only a few hours and is the fastest and most comfortable option, while the train offers a scenic cross-border journey through Vietnam and southern China, making it a good choice for travelers with more time.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: ~1 300 km by air | ~1 700+ km by train via Nanning
- ⏱️ Travel time: Flight ~1 h 50 min to ~2 h direct | Train ~25–40 h via Vietnam–China border and onward to Xiamen
- 💰 Price range: Flight approx. US$200–300 per person | Train approx. US$170+ per person
- ✈️ Best for speed & comfort: Flight from Hanoi → Xiamen
- 🚆 Best for value & adventure: Train from Hanoi → Nanning → Xiamen
Last updated in October 2026
Hanoi to Xiamen: Which Transport Is Best?
| Transport | ⏱️ Time | 💰 Price | Comfort | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Flight with Stopover | 5–12 h | $200–300/person | ★★★★★ | Speed & comfort |
| Train via Nanning & Guangzhou | 25–40 h | $170+/person | ★★★★☆ | Rail adventure |
Rating: ★★★★★ excellent ★★★★☆ very good ★★★☆☆ good.
Travel from Hanoi to Xiamen in China by connecting flight or train via Nanning and Guangzhou. Flying is the fastest and most convenient option, while the train offers an interesting overland journey through southern China. The best option depends on your travel time, budget, and preference for air or rail travel.
1. Train from Hanoi to Xiamen
👉 Train via Nanning and Guangzhou is a long but interesting route from Hanoi to Xiamen.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who enjoy overland travel and multiple train connections
- ✔️ Travel time: ~22–35 hours (with transfers)
- ✔️ Cost: $90–180 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: moderate to high (sleeper train + high-speed trains)
- ✅ Best Option: Sleeper train to Nanning + high-speed trains via Guangzhou to Xiamen
- 💡 Tip: Plan connections well and allow time for border procedures.
A) From Hanoi to Nanning by International Train
The international sleeper train from Hanoi to Nanning is the most popular overland route between Vietnam and China. It offers a comfortable journey, border crossing on the same train, and easy connections to China’s high-speed rail network.
- Affordable and comfortable way to travel to China.
- Operated by Vietnam Railways and China Railway (MR1/T8702).
- Travel time is about 12 hours.
- One train departs daily at 21:20 from Hanoi.
- Tickets cost about $55–60 per person.
- Departure from Gia Lam Railway Station.
- Arrival at Nanning Railway Station.
The train stops at Dong Dang in Lang Son province for Vietnamese exit immigration before continuing to Pingxiang, where passengers complete Chinese immigration. After border formalities, the train continues directly to Nanning. China is one hour ahead of Vietnam.
Before traveling, check the latest visa requirements: Visa for China: Who Needs to Apply and How?. A new high-speed railway between Pingxiang and Nanning is also planned.
BOOK TRAIN TICKET to Nanning ➜
⚠️ Important: Your passport details must match your ticket exactly. A valid passport and the required visas for Vietnam and China are mandatory.
Vietnam e-visas and visa on arrival are not accepted for exit through the Dong Dang international railway border crossing.
B) From Nanning to Guangzhou by Train
After arriving in Nanning, continue to Guangzhou by high-speed or regular train. High-speed trains are the preferred option thanks to their short travel time and frequent departures.
- High-speed trains take about 4 hours (around 600 km).
- Regular trains take about 13 hours (around 800 km).
- Choose from 2nd Class, 1st Class, Business Seats, or sleeper berths on slower trains.
- Book train tickets from Nanning to Guangzhou on 12go.asia ➜.
C) From Guangzhou to Xiamen by Train
From Guangzhou, modern high-speed trains provide a fast and comfortable connection to the coastal city of Xiamen.
- High-speed trains take about 4 hours (around 620 km).
- Regular trains take about 13 hours (around 780 km).
- Seat options include 2nd Class, 1st Class, Business Seats, and sleepers on slower trains.
- Book train tickets from Guangzhou to Xiamen on 12go.asia ➜.
2. FLIGHTS from Hanoi to Xiamen
👉 Connecting flights are the fastest and most comfortable way from Hanoi to Xiamen.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who want to save time and travel comfortably
- ✔️ Travel time: ~5–12 hours (with transfer)
- ✔️ Cost: $200–300 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: high (modern aircraft with various airlines)
- ✅ Best Option: 1-stop flights via Guangzhou with airlines like China Southern or Xiamen Airlines
- 💡 Tip: Compare layover times and book early for better prices.
Flying is the fastest and most comfortable way to travel from Hanoi to Xiamen. There are no direct flights, so all routes include one stopover, usually in Guangzhou.
- Flights take about 5–12 hours, depending on the connection.
- Airfares usually range from $200–300 per person.
- Flights depart from Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi.
- Arrival is at Xiamen Gaoqi International Airport.
- Airlines include China Southern, Vietnam Airlines, Xiamen Airlines, Hong Kong Airlines, Shandong Airlines, and others.
❓ FAQ + Tips – Travel from Hanoi to Xiamen
How long does it take to travel from Hanoi to Xiamen in China?
Flights with a stopover take about 5–12 hours. Trains via Nanning and Guangzhou take approximately 25–40 hours.
What is the travel distance from Hanoi to Xiamen by plane or train?
The distance from Hanoi to Xiamen is about 1,400 km, while the train route via Nanning and Guangzhou is longer.
How much does it cost to travel from Hanoi to Xiamen by flight or train?
Flights cost around $200–300 per person. Train travel via Nanning and Guangzhou starts at approximately $170 per person.
What is the fastest and most comfortable way to get from Hanoi to Xiamen?
Flying with one stopover is the fastest and most comfortable option. Compare connections and layover times before booking.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Hanoi to Xiamen in southern China?
Train travel via Nanning and Guangzhou can be a good alternative. Compare the total ticket costs for all sections of the journey.
When is the best time to visit Xiamen for sightseeing and outdoor activities?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) generally offer pleasant weather for sightseeing and exploring the coast.
Are there direct flights from Hanoi to Xiamen, or do I need a stopover?
According to this route guide, there are no direct flights. Most connections include a stopover, often in Guangzhou.
How can I travel by train from Hanoi to Xiamen via Nanning and Guangzhou?
Take the international train from Hanoi to Nanning, then continue by train via Guangzhou to Xiamen. Allow enough time for transfers and border formalities.
What documents do I need when traveling from Hanoi to Xiamen by train?
You need a valid passport and any required Chinese visa or entry authorization. Check current entry rules and railway requirements before departure.
What are the best attractions to visit after arriving in Xiamen?
Popular attractions include Gulangyu Island, Nanputuo Temple, Hulishan Fortress, and Zhongshan Road. You can also plan a trip to the Hakka Tulou buildings.
💡 Practical Travel Tips for Hanoi to Xiamen
Traveling from Hanoi to Xiamen covers about 1,400 km. You can travel by connecting flight or by international train via Nanning and Guangzhou.
- Fly to Save Time: Flights with one stopover are the fastest and most comfortable option.
- Travel by Train: The rail route via Nanning and Guangzhou offers a scenic journey across southern China.
- Prepare for Border Control: Carry your passport and valid visa for the Vietnam–China border crossing.
- Visit Gulangyu Island: Take a short ferry from Xiamen to this famous UNESCO-listed island.
- Book Early: Flights and high-speed trains can sell out during weekends and holidays.
- Pack for a Long Journey: Bring water, snacks, a power bank, and a light jacket.
Tip: Train tickets and flights from Hanoi to Xiamen can be searched and booked online in advance.
How to travel from Hanoi to Xiamen
You can travel from Hanoi to Xiamen by connecting flight or by train via Nanning. Flying is the fastest option, while the train offers a scenic journey through Vietnam and southern China.
The international train from Hanoi to Nanning takes about 12 hours via Lang Son and Pingxiang. From Nanning, modern high-speed trains reach Xiamen in about 8–9 hours. Train tickets and flights can be searched and booked online in advance.
Xiamen is a modern coastal city in southern China.
Xiamen (厦门) is a popular seaside city in China, located opposite Taiwan. It is known for its waterfront, modern skyline, beaches, and excellent high-speed rail connections across southern China.
There are no direct flights from Hanoi, so all flights include at least one stopover and take about 6–12 hours. Xiamen is also a convenient gateway to other destinations, and from Hanoi you can continue by train or plane to Hong Kong or Macau.