1. Flight to Dien Bien Phu
2. Bus to Dien Bien Phu
3. Minivan to Dien Bien
4. FAQ + Travel Tips
🎫 Book Tickets + Flight
From Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu you can travel by sleeper bus, van, plane.
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- Travel distance from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu is about 440 km by bus or about 300 km by plane. There are 3 ways how you can get to Dien Bien from Hanoi in Vietnam – direct flight, sleeper bus or motorbike. The most comfortable and fastest option of transfer to Dien Bien Phu is to take a direct flight from Noi Bai Airport in Hanoi. Travel time by plane – direct flight to Dien Bien Phu Airport (domestic airport) is about 1 hour and it costs about $50-100/pp. This route is operated by Vietnam Airlines – the bigggest airline of Vietnam or Hanh Air Systems.
- Another way of transfer from Hanoi to Dien Bien is to travel by sleeper tourist overnight bus or van. This option takes a lot of time, but it is the most cheapest way of getting to Dien Bien from Hanoi. Travel time by sleeper bus or van to Dien Bien is about 11-12 hours and bus tickets cost about $18-30/pp. These buses depart from My Dinh Bus Station or Yen Nghia Bus Station in Hanoi. You can use these bus companies to Dien Bien: Dũng Ngà, Lê Dũng, Xuân Long.
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- The last option how you can reach Dien Bien Phu is to travel on motorbike. This way is only a good way of transfer for the most experienced motorbike drivers. Because the roads in Vietnam can be dangerous, you should drive slowly and carefully and IDP in Vietnam is necessary. Because it is very long travel route, you should travel about 2 days and stay e.g. in Moc Chau or Son La. Dien Bien is a bit remoted city of northwest Vietnam, it is not so touristy and it is visited mainly by Vietnamese. It is a typical agriculture town, there are large rice fields around the town and also various small ethnic villages. Dien Bien Phu has an airport almost at the city center, but there is no railway station, so transfer by train to and from Dien Bin is not possible. You can search and book tickets or flights to Dien Bien from Hanoi easily online. From Hanoi you can also travel to central Vietnam and visit Da Nang and Hoi An.
| Transfer Mode – Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu: | Travel Time | Cost Range |
|---|---|---|
| Plane – Direct Flight | 1 hour | $50-100/pp |
| Sleeper Tourist Bus / Minibus | 9-12 hours | $18-30/pp |
How do I get from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu?
1. DIRECT FLIGHTS from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu
If you want to travel from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu as quickly and comfortably as possible, then a direct flight connection is offered as the best transfer option. However, a minor disadvantage is that the flight schedule is very limited and 2-3 flights in 1 day are common. These numbers of flights to Dien Bien can also change during the year.
A direct air connection will of course be the most expensive option for you, flights from Hanoi to Dien Bien cost between $50-100/pp. These direct flights are operated from Noi Bai Airport to Dien Bien Airport (see the map of Vietnam airports) and the flight time is only about 1 hour.
Dien Bien Airport is approximately only 2 km from the city center, so everything is within easy reach, including accommodation. These flights to Dien Bien Phu are operated by Vietnam Airlines, Hanh Air Systems or Bamboo Airways. Vietnam Airlines is the largest and most popular airline, Hanh Air Systems is a smaller private airline with smaller planes, which usually has slightly more expensive flights.
You can search and buy flights from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu easily online even in advance. Always read all flight conditions carefully, including baggage information and other additional information. A direct flight is the best and fastest way to get to Dien Bien Phu from Hanoi in northern Vietnam.
However, with this transport option, you can miss other interesting places in northwestern Vietnam such as Moc Chau, Mai Chau or Son La. However, due to the limited flight schedule and a higher transfer price, most solo low-cost travelers will probably use a bus or minibus.
2. SLEEPER BUS from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu
The used low-cost transfer option from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu is the trip by intercity sleeper bus. Since there is no railway to the city of Dien Bien, the bus will be the next transfer option from Hanoi. Several companies operate sleeper buses to Dien Bien from Hanoi, such as Hai Van, Sapa Discovery Travel, To Vietnam Travel, Dũng Ngà, Lê Dũng, Xuân Long.
Buses can depart from various places in Hanoi, some for example from My Dinh Bus Station and also arrive at various places in Dien Bien. Buses can arrive, for example, at Dien Bien Bus Station, Na Tau, the To Vietnam Travel company bus goes, for example, to the border of Laos to Tay Trang.
BOOK BUS TICKET to Dien Bien ➜
You will see all this information about departure points in Hanoi and arrival points in Dien Bien when ordering tickets. Bus tickets to Dien Bien from Hanoi range from $18-30/pp, also depending on the company and type of bus. The travel time by sleeper bus from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu in Vietnam is approximately 9-12 hours, but it is advisable to take into account that this time can change.
Buses are also late in Vietnam and it depends on the traffic situation on the roads. The sleeper intercity buses also make other stops before arriving in Dien Bien City. You can search and buy tickets to Dien Bien easily online, always read all conditions and transfer instructions.
3. VAN / MINIBUS from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu
Another option for ground transportation from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu is by minivan / minibus. These smaller vehicles are very popular in Vietnam because they are fast and offer very good comfort with comfortable seats. They are also used for transport to very remote places where there is no railway.
In theory, they can be more comfortable for some people than classic sleeper buses. You can use some minivans or minibuses from Hanoi to Dien Bien with the well-known Hai Van company. Driving time for this minivan from Hanoi to Dien Bien is approximately 9 hours and tickets cost around $30/pp.
BOOK VAN TICKET to Dien Bien ➜
It is also advisable to take into account that the driving time may change depending on the situation on the roads or in the case of a delayed departure. Minivans can depart from various locations in Hanoi and also arrive at various locations in Dien Bien, you will see the information again when ordering tickets.
You can easily search and buy minivan tickets from Hanoi to Dien Bien online even in advance. A minivan is a very good alternative to a sleeper bus, the fare is usually a bit higher than sleeper buses, but these vehicles are usually very comfortable and modern.
4. Travel on motorbike from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu
The last option to go to Dien Bien from Hanoi, which is suitable for more adventurous travelers, is by motorbike. You can choose this option if you have an International driver’s license with a valid license for the rented motorbike and you already have experience driving a motorbike.
This route is more suitable for more experienced motorcycle drivers and is approximately 450 km long, so it is advisable to divide this route into at least 2 days. It is convenient to go through places like Hoa Binh, Mai Chau, Moc Chau and then Son La town. From the town of Son La, there is only one main road AH13 to the town of Dien Bien.
All these places are also interesting and are visited by other foreign tourists. As the roads in northwestern Vietnam are sometimes erratic and/or damaged, it is recommended to drive slowly, carefully and obey all traffic rules on the roads. You will certainly encounter the fact that some vehicle drivers do not follow these rules.
It is also possible in Hanoi to arrange, for example, a motorcycle circuit through northern Vietnam and go on this trip with a guide, it is certainly not a bad choice. Prices for renting a motorbike can be different, weaker motorbikes cost as little as $7-10/pp for 1 day, stronger motorbikes can cost between $15-30/pp.
Traveling by motorbike in Vietnam is an interesting experience and will offer a different view of Vietnam, but it is not suitable for all travelers. If you have no driving experience, skip this option.
❓ FAQ + TIPS – Travel from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu:
1. What is the travel time from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu?
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- Transfer by plane – direct flight from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu takes about 1 hour.
- Transfer by sleeper overnight bus from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu takes about 11-12 hours.
- Transfer by minivan or minibus from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu takes about 9 hours.
2. How to book and buy tickets / flights from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu?
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- Search and book tickets + flights from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu on Baolau ➜ or 12go.asia ➜.
- You can also change your travel route, e.g. Hanoi > Sapa, Sapa > Dien Bien Phu…
3. Do you want to book a private tour in northern Vietnam?
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- You can search and book your private tour to the north of Vietnam online with KLOOK ➜.
4. How much does it cost to travel from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu?
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- Transfer by plane – direct flight from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu costs about $50-100/pp.
- Transfer by sleeper tourist bus / minibus from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu costs about $18-30/pp.
5. How and where to book a motorbike in Hanoi?
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- You can search and book your motorbike in Hanoi (or other city) online on Bikesbooking ➜.
6. What is the best way of transfer from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu?
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- The best, fastest and also comfortable option of transport to Dien Bien from Hanoi is to take a direct flight. Flight schedule to Dien Bien is very limited, but you will save a lot of travel time.
7. What is the cheapest option of transfer from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu?
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- The cheapest option of transport to Dien Bien from Hanoi is to travel by sleeper overnight bus.
8. Is it possible to travel by train from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu?
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- No, it is not possible to travel by train because there is no railway to Dien Bien from Hanoi.
9. Where to travel from Dien Bien Phu?
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- You can travel by bus to Lai Chau, Sapa or Son La in the northwest Vietnam. There is no railway and there are no flights between these cities. Sapa is one of the most visited sites in northern Vietnam.
10. Where to stay in Dien Bien Phu?
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- Dien Bien offers mainly cheap modern hotels, motels or there are also some homestays nearby.
- Search and book your hotel online > Book Hotel in Dien Bien Phu ➜.
11. How to travel solo in Vietnam?
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- Discover the wonders of solo travel in Vietnam as you explore ancient temples, cruise through scenic landscapes or karst sceneries, hike various national parks and ethnic villages and connect with the warm-hearted locals, creating a personalized journey of cultural immersion and breathtaking experiences.
12. What are the most interesting things or facts about Vietnam?
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- Vietnam, a country with a captivating allure, is celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, including the mesmerizing limestone karsts of Halong Bay, the terraced rice fields of Sapa, and the bustling waterways of the Mekong Delta. Its rich history unfolds through ancient temples in Hanoi, the imperial city of Hue, and the Cu Chi Tunnels, providing a glimpse into Vietnam’s resilience during wartime. The country’s vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality further enhance the allure of this Southeast Asian gem. Read this: 15 Interesting Things of Vietnam.
13. What to expect from Vietnam Culture?
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- Expect a vibrant cultural tapestry in Vietnam, characterized by traditional values, a strong sense of community, and a deep-rooted respect for family. You’ll encounter a fusion of French, Chinese, and indigenous influences in art, architecture, and cuisine. Traditional water puppetry, folk music, and dance performances showcase the country’s artistic flair. The importance of rituals and festivals in daily life adds a colorful dimension, while the warmth and friendliness of the Vietnamese people make for a welcoming and enriching cultural experience.
BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Vietnam ➜
🚍 Bus from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu — Schedule / Timetable / Prices:
Bus Schedule - Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu | Departs in Hanoi | Arrival in Dien Bien | Ticket - Price |
|---|---|---|---|
To Vietnam Travel | 15:00 | 03:00 | From $29 |
Sapa Disc. Travel | 20:00 | 05:00 | From $18 |
Hai Van | 18:30 | 03:30 | From $20 |
Hai Van | 19:00 | 04:00 | From $20 |
Hai Van | 19:45 | 05:45 | From $24 |
Lê Dũng | 21:00 | 07:00 | From $16-18 |
Lê Dũng | 20:45 | 06:45 | From $25-27 |
Dũng Ngà | 21:00 | 08:10 | From $15 |
Xuân Long | 20:00 | 07:15 | From $25-27 |
BOOK your HOTEL in Dien Bien ➜
🎫 Book tickets from Hanoi to Dien Bien Phu online + Schedule:
(You can change your travel route, eg. Hanoi to Moc Chau, Hanoi to Sapa, Hanoi to Ninh Binh…)