Flight
Fastest option with stopover or occasional direct flights
Train via Nanning + Guilin
Overland route with border crossing and high-speed trains
Train combination
Cheaper option but long journey with multiple transfers
Bus combinations
Very complex route with long travel time and changes
Quick answer: Travelling from Hanoi to Chongqing (China) is possible by direct flight or by train via Nanning. Flying takes only a few hours and is the fastest option, while the train offers a scenic cross-border journey through Vietnam and China at a lower cost, making it ideal for travelers with more time.
At a glance:
- 📍 Distance: ~950 km by air / ~1 350 km+ by land (via Nanning and Guilin)
- ⏱️ Travel time: Flight ~2–3 hours direct (or ~6–12 hours with stopover) | Train route ~25+ hours
- 💰 Price range: Flight ~US $180–300 per person | Train route ~US $120+ per person
- ✈️ Best for speed & comfort: Direct or near-direct flight Hanoi → Chongqing
- 🚆 Best for value & adventurous travel: Train Hanoi → Nanning → Guilin → Chongqing
Last updated in April 2026
How to travel from Hanoi to Chongqing
You can travel from Hanoi to Chongqing by connecting flight or by train via Nanning, Guilin, or Kunming. Flying is the fastest option, while the train offers a scenic cross-border journey through Vietnam and China.
The travel distance is about 950 km by air and around 1,350 km by rail. There are no direct flights, so all flights include at least one stopover and take about 6–12 hours. Train tickets and flights can be searched and booked online in advance. Bus travel is available but is not recommended for this route.
Chongqing is the gateway to Western China.
Chongqing (重庆) is one of China’s largest municipalities and a major economic center on the Yangtze River. The city is famous for its mountain scenery, hotpot cuisine, river cruises, and impressive skyline.
Popular attractions include the Yangtze River, Hongya Cave, Ciqikou Ancient Town, and the UNESCO-listed Dazu Rock Carvings, located about 180 km from the city. Chongqing is also a convenient transport hub for exploring western China and is easily reached by train via Nanning and Guilin, or via Kunming.
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| Transfer Mode – Hanoi to Chongqing: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Train (via Nanning and Guilin) | 25+ hours | $120+/pp |
| Plane (Flights with stopover) | 6-12 hours | $200+/pp |
1. Train from Hanoi to Chongqing
👉 Train via Nanning, Guilin and Guiyang is a long but diverse route from Hanoi to Chongqing.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who want to explore multiple regions of China along the way
- ✔️ Travel time: ~20–30+ hours (multiple transfers)
- ✔️ Cost: $90–180 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: moderate to high (mix of sleeper trains and high-speed connections)
- ✅ Best Option: Combine sleeper train to Nanning with high-speed trains via Guilin and Guiyang
- 💡 Tip: Plan transfers carefully and book key segments in advance.
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 is an affordable and scenic journey, offering comfortable Soft Sleeper cabins and direct border crossing procedures.
- One of the cheapest ways to travel from Hanoi to China.
- International train operated by China Railway (MR1/T8702).
- Travel time is about 12 hours.
- One departure every day at 21:20 from Hanoi.
- Train tickets cost about $55–60 per person.
- Departure from Gia Lam Railway Station.
- Arrival at Nanning Railway Station.
The train travels from Hanoi to Lang Son province, stopping at Dong Dang for Vietnamese exit immigration. Passengers stay on the same train, but passports and visas are checked before crossing the border.
After arriving in Pingxiang, all passengers complete Chinese immigration before the train continues to Nanning. Remember that China is one hour ahead of Vietnam. Before your trip, check the latest visa requirements in this guide: Visa for China: Who Needs to Apply and How?. China also plans to build a new high-speed railway between Pingxiang and Nanning.
BOOK TRAIN TICKET to Nanning ➜
⚠️ Important: Your ticket details must exactly match your passport. A valid passport and the required visas for Vietnam and China are mandatory for boarding.
If your nationality requires a visa, obtain it before departure. Vietnam e-visas and visa on arrival are not accepted when exiting through the Dong Dang international railway border crossing.
B) From Nanning to Guilin by High-Speed Train
After arriving in Nanning, continue to Guilin by high-speed train. This route is fast, comfortable, and a great opportunity to visit one of China’s most scenic destinations.
- High-speed trains take about 2–3 hours (370 km).
- Regular trains take about 5.5 hours.
- Seat options include 2nd Class, 1st Class, Business Seat, and sleepers on slower trains.
- Train tickets cost about $10–67 per person.
C) From Guilin to Guiyang by High-Speed Train
Modern high-speed trains connect Guilin with Guiyang several times a day, providing a quick and comfortable transfer.
- Travel time is about 2–3 hours.
- The route covers approximately 420 km.
- Choose from 2nd Class, 1st Class, or Business Seat.
- Train tickets cost about $25–48 per person.
D) From Guiyang to Chongqing by Train
The final section of the journey connects Guiyang with Chongqing. High-speed trains are the fastest choice, while regular trains offer lower fares.
- High-speed trains take about 3 hours.
- Regular trains take about 10–11 hours (460 km).
- Seat options include standing, hard seat, and sleeper berths.
- Train tickets cost about $25–48 per person.
- Book train tickets from Nanning to Chongqing on 12go.asia ➜.
2. FLIGHTS from Hanoi to Chongqing
👉 Connecting flights offer a fast and comfortable transfer from Hanoi to Chongqing.
- ✔️ Ideal for: travelers who want to reduce travel time and avoid long train journeys
- ✔️ Travel time: ~6–12 hours (with stopover)
- ✔️ Cost: $180–300 per person
- ✔️ Comfort level: high (modern aircraft with various airlines)
- ✅ Best Option: 1-stop flights via Guangzhou, Bangkok, or Changsha with major airlines
- 💡 Tip: Choose shorter layovers and compare routes for better timing and price.
Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to travel from Hanoi to Chongqing. As there are no direct flights, all routes include one stopover in another Asian city.
- Flights usually connect via Guangzhou, Changsha, Bangkok, or other hubs.
- Total travel time is about 6–12 hours, depending on the connection.
- Airfares typically range from $180–300 per person.
- Flights depart from Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi.
- Arrival is at Chongqing Jiangbei International Airport.
- Airlines include China Southern, Nok Air, AirAsia, Thai AirAsia, and others.
❓ FAQ + Travel Tips – Hanoi to Chongqing
How to book train tickets and flights from Hanoi to Chongqing?
Book train tickets and flights online on Baolau ➜ or 12go.asia ➜.
How long does it take to travel from Hanoi to Chongqing?
Flights take about 6–12 hours with one stopover. Trains via Nanning take 25+ hours.
What is the travel distance from Hanoi to Chongqing?
The distance from Hanoi to Chongqing is about 950 km by air and 1,350 km by land.
How much does it cost to travel from Hanoi to Chongqing?
Flights cost about $180–300, while train travel starts at around $120 per person.
What is the best way to get from Hanoi to Chongqing?
Flying is the fastest and most comfortable option, with one stopover.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Hanoi to Chongqing?
The cheapest option is the international train via Nanning and China’s rail network.
How can I travel from Hanoi to Nanning?
Travel by train, flight, or bus. See this guide.
What are the best places to visit in Chongqing?
Visit Hongya Cave, Ciqikou Ancient Town, the Yangtze River, Three Gorges Museum, and Dazu Rock Carvings.
Can I take a Yangtze River cruise from Chongqing?
Yes. Chongqing is one of the main starting points for Yangtze River cruises.
Can I visit the Dazu Rock Carvings from Chongqing?
Yes. The UNESCO-listed Dazu Rock Carvings are about 170 km from Chongqing.
When is the best time to visit Chongqing?
Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the best weather.
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💡 Practical Travel Tips for Hanoi to Chongqing
Traveling from Hanoi to Chongqing covers about 950 km by air. You can travel by connecting flight or by international train via Nanning and China’s high-speed rail network.
- Fly to Save Time: Flights with one stopover are the fastest and most comfortable option.
- Travel by Train: The overland route via Nanning offers a scenic journey across Vietnam and China.
- Prepare for Border Control: Carry your passport and valid visa for the Vietnam–China border crossing.
- Allow Extra Transfer Time: Train routes require changes in Nanning, Guilin, or Guiyang.
- Pack for a Long Journey: Bring snacks, water, a power bank, and a travel pillow.
- Book Early: Flights and train tickets sell out quickly during weekends and holidays.
Tip: Train tickets and flights from Hanoi to Chongqing can be searched and booked online in advance.