How to go → HANOI to DONG HOI? ☀️

How to get from Hanoi to Dong Hoi (Phong Nha)
How do you get to Dong Hoi from Hanoi? You can travel by train, sleeper bus or you can take a flight.

1. Train – Hanoi to Dong Hoi
2. Bus – Hanoi to Dong Hoi
3. Flight – Hanoi to Dong Hoi
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🎫 Book Ticket to Dong Hoi

From Hanoi to Dong Hoi you can travel by train, bus or direct flight.

    • Traveling from Hanoi to Dong Hoi spans approximately 500 kilometers by train or bus, and about 450 kilometers by plane. Explore various transportation options such as train travel which includes regular and luxury tourist trains. The train journey from Hanoi to Dong Hoi lasts about 10 hours with ticket prices ranging from $15 to $50 per person, depending on the train type, offering soft seats or sleeper berths. Alternatively, consider traveling via sleeper tourist bus, although train travel is often recommended for its comfort and reliability. Bus travel time is also approximately 8-10 hours, with ticket costs averaging $12 to $25 per person. Opting for a direct flight presents the quickest route, with a mere 1.5-hour travel time. These direct flights to Dong Hoi are not only swift but also economical, with one-way fares typically ranging from $30 to $90 per person. Dong Hoi Airport conveniently lies just 4 kilometers from the city center. For those venturing to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, sleeper tourist buses departing from Hanoi provide a convenient option. From Dong Hoi, local public buses or taxis offer transportation to Phong Nha. Additionally, Dong Hoi serves as a gateway to southern Vietnam, with train or plane connections readily available. Secure your train or bus tickets and book direct flights from Hanoi to Dong Hoi in central Vietnam effortlessly online. Once in Dong Hoi, continue your journey by train/bus to Hue, another prominent tourist destination in Vietnam.

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    • Dong Hoi, the gateway to exploring Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, may not be as renowned as other cities in central Vietnam like Hue or Hoi An, yet it offers its own charm. Situated in the northern region of central Vietnam, Dong Hoi lies 500 kilometers south of Hanoi and 150 kilometers north of Hue. Despite its lesser-known status, Dong Hoi boasts picturesque ocean beaches. Serving as the entry point to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and the famed Son Doong cave (Sơn Đoòng), Dong Hoi offers multiple travel options from Hanoi including direct flights, train travel (offering seats or sleeper berths), or sleeper tourist buses. Opting for a direct flight from Noi Bai International Airport to Dong Hoi Airport ensures a comfortable and swift journey. Beyond Dong Hoi, travelers can also explore Hoi An and Da Nang in central Vietnam from Hanoi.
Transfer Mode – Hanoi to Dong Hoi: Travel Time Cost Range
Plane – Direct Flight 1.5 hour $30-90/pp
Train by VR 10-11 hours $15-125/pp
Tourist Bus 8-10 hours $12-25/pp
Private Car 9-10 hours

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How do I get from Hanoi to Dong Hoi?


1. TRAIN from Hanoi to Dong Hoi

A railway runs from north to south through the city of Dong Hoi. Traveling by train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi is a popular low-cost transport option for tourists and also low-cost travelers. Regular trains of the Vietnam Railways with seats and sleeping berths depart from Hanoi, including tourist luxury sleeping trains by companies Violette Train, Lotus Train, Laman Express, Livitrans Express, Damitrans.

Trains depart from Hanoi Railway Station and arrive at Dong Hoi Railway Station near the city center (see Vietnam Railway Map). Traveling by train to Dong Hoi is an interesting experience and it is also a relatively easy way of transportation to central Vietnam, for some it is also advantageous, as trains also stop in smaller cities. For such a long journey, which takes up to 10 hours by train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, you should choose a sleeping bed in a cabin for 4 or 6 passengers, however, ordinary seats are cheaper, but sitting for 10 hours may not be very comfortable.

Tourist sleeper trains of private companies have more comfortable cabins mostly for 4 passengers and fares for these trains are higher than regular trains of Vietnam Railways. However, they are still very popular among tourists. The price of train tickets from Hanoi to Dong Hoi for regular trains is on average between $17-50/per person (seats or sleepers) and on average $50-75/per person for tourist sleeper trains.

Light refreshments and drinks are usually offered on tourist trains, which are also included in the fare, on regular trains you can buy food. If you want to be sure of your ride, it is advisable to buy train tickets to Dong Hoi from Hanoi easily online in advance on the platforms below. Also, always read the additional information and instructions about the train transfer to Dong Hoi that you will see when ordering tickets.

train-hanoi-to-dong-hoi
From Hanoi to Dong Hoi you can travel by train of Vietnam Railways (photo: Baolau)
laman-express-train-hanoi-dong-hoi
Laman Express Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi – luxury tourist train (photo: Baolau)


2. SLEEPER BUS from Hanoi to Dong Hoi

Another cheaper way to travel to Dong Hoi from Hanoi is to travel by long-distance sleeper bus. This option may not be as comfortable as a sleeper train, but some travelers still use it. Sleeper buses from Hanoi to Dong Hoi or to Phong Nha-Ke Bang Park offer beds, the journey time is approximately 8-10 hours and the fare ranges from $12-25/per person. However, it is necessary to take into account that the journey time may change, depending on the traffic or the stops that the buses often make.

Some of the bus companies that go to Dong Hoi are Khanh Hong, Tan Kim Chi, Hoang Long, Hung Thanh and others. Buses often continue further into central or even southern Vietnam. Bus tickets from Hanoi to Dong Hoi can again be searched and purchased online in advance. If you are deciding how to go from Hanoi to central Vietnam and you are looking for a low-cost option, it is rather better to choose a train journey and use a sleeper bed for longer distances.

    • Book and buy bus e-tickets from Hanoi to Dong Hoi online on Baolau ➜ or 12go.asia ➜
    • You will receive your e-ticket to Dong Hoi/Phong Nha by email, ready to print or carry in your mobile phone or tablet and present at the ticket counter of the station before boarding the bus in Hanoi
sleeper-bus-ha-giang-hung-thanh
Bus of the Hung Thanh company – Hanoi to Phong Nha  (photo: Baolau).


3. DIRECT FLIGHT from Hanoi to Dong Hoi

Traveling by plane from Hanoi to Dong Hoi is also possible and is suitable for those who are not too tight on the budget and don’t have much time for long trips by train or bus. This is definitely the best, fastest and most convenient way to get easily to Dong Hoi city in central Vietnam from Hanoi.

Direct flights, which take approximately 1.5 hours, are operated from Noi Bai Airport to Dong Hoi Airport, which is only 6 km from the city center (you can also see the article about airports in Vietnam). However, this is not a low-cost travel option, on average direct flights from Hanoi to Dong Hoi cost about $45-80/per person (prices for Economy class), these prices can change a little during different seasons.

You can use Vietnam Airlines or Bamboo Airways from Hanoi to Dong Hoi, but the flight schedule is very limited, both airlines have mostly positive reviews and references from tourists. A direct flight is a great solution to get to Dong Hoi quickly, but due to the limited flight schedule, it will not be convenient for everyone.


How to get from Hanoi to Phong Nha-Ke Bang?

If you want to travel from Hanoi to Phong Nha-Ke Bang Park, you can use transfer by sleeper tourist bus. There are several connections during the day and these are sleeper long-distance modern tourist buses. Most of them often go through Dong Hoi town and then continue to Phong Nha-Ke Bang, where many travelers are heading. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a fascinating place with the largest cave in the world – Son Doong.

The bus ride to Phong Nha from Hanoi takes about 9-12 hours and bus tickets are in a range of prices, around $18-35/person. There are also very new buses on the route, e.g. with LCD TVs and a toilet inside the bus, they are a little more expensive, but offer perfect comfort. Buses to Phong Nha depart from various locations in Hanoi, you will always see this when ordering tickets on online platforms.

Various bus companies operate from Hanoi to Phong Nha such as Hung Long, Grouptour, Full Moon Party Tour, Techbus VN, Duy Khanh Transport, Duc Duong Bus, To Vietnam Travel, Sapa Discovery Travel and others. You can search and buy bus tickets to Phong Nha from Hanoi easily online.

    • Book and buy bus e-tickets from Hanoi to Phong Nha-Ke Bang on 12go.asia ➜
    • You will receive your e-ticket by email, ready to print or carry in your mobile phone or tablet and present at the ticket counter of the station before boarding the bus

How to get from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park?

    • from Dong Hoi city to Phong Nha-Ke Bang park you can go by local bus or private taxi
    • local public bus departs from Bến xe Nam Lý (bus station) and bus tickets cost about $2/pp
    • transfer by public bus from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha takes about 1.5 hour
    • travel distance is 45 km from Dong Hoi town to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park

FAQ + TIPS – Travel from Hanoi to Dong Hoi:

1. How to book train / bus tickets + flights from Hanoi to Ho Dong Hoi?

    • You can book your e-ticket from Hanoi to Dong Hoi on Baolau ➜ or 12go.asia ➜.
    • You can also book another tickets, e.g. Hanoi > Phong Nha, Dong Hoi > Hue…

2. What is the travel time from Hanoi to Ho Dong Hoi?

    • Travel by plane from Hanoi to Dong Hoi takes about 1.5 hour (direct flight).
    • Travel by train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi takes about 10 hours.
    • Travel by sleeper bus from Hanoi to Dong Hoi takes about 8-10 hours.

3. What is the travel distance from Hanoi to Dong Hoi?

    • Travel distance from Hanoi to Dong Hoi is about 500 km by train/bus and about 450 km by plane.

4. How much does it cost to travel from Hanoi to Dong Hoi?

    • Travel by plane from Hanoi to Dong Hoi costs about $30-90/pp (direct flight).
    • Travel by train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi costs about $15-125/pp (depends on the type of train).
    • Travel by sleeper bus from Hanoi to Dong Hoi costs about $12-25/pp.

5. Are there also some luxury tourist trains from Hanoi to Dong Hoi?

    • Yes, from Hanoi to Dong Hoi you can travel by luxury tourist trains of Laman Express, Lotus Train, Violette Train, New Livitrans Express. Laman Express Train and Lotus Train have also 2 or 4 berths in cabin.

6. Where do you keep your luggage in Hanoi?

    • If you want to keep your luggage in Hanoi you can try Radical Storage service. This service offers a few places in the city center of Hanoi, it is a cheap and your luggage will be safe.

7. What to choose – train, bus or plane from Hanoi to Dong Hoi?

    • If you do not want to travel by plane, you should definitely to travel by train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi. Sleeper trains are comfortable and much better then sleeper bus. The best way is to travel by plane, flights from Hanoi to Dong Hoi are sometimes very cheap and direct flight takes only about 1.5 hour.

8. What is the cheapest option of transport from Hanoi to Dong Hoi?

    • The most cheapest way of getting to Dong Hoi from Hanoi is to travel by tourist sleeper bus. Another cheap way is to travel by train to Dong Hoi – hard seat, but you do not want to spend 10 hours on a hard seat.

9. What you should not miss if you travel from Hanoi to Dong Hoi?

    • If you are traveling from Hanoi to Dong Hoi you should not miss Ninh Binh. Ninh Binh is a tourist place, but offers ver nice places, boat tourist, historical sites and nature. From Ninh Binh you can travel by train or bus to Dong Hoi.

10. Where to travel from Dong Hoi?

11. Which beaches can you visit in central Vietnam?

    • Central Vietnam is known for its stunning coastline and beautiful beaches. The best places for visit these beaches are in Cam Ranh coast, Nha Trang area, Quy Nhon or Hue. Read this article: The Best Beaches in Central Vietnam.

12. How to travel solo in Vietnam?

    • 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.

13. What are the most interesting things or facts about Vietnam?

    • 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.

BOOK a TOUR / ACTIVITY in Phong Nha

tour-trekking-activity-phong-nha-dong-hoi


🚆 Train from Hanoi to Dong Hoi – Schedule / Timetable + Train Tickets:

Train Schedule - Hanoi to Dong Hoi

Departs in Hanoi

Arrival in Dong Hoi

Train ticket - Price

Train SE1 (soft seat, sleeper)

22:00

07:43

From $19.50

Train SE3 (soft seat, sleeper)

19:20

05:21

From $19.50

Train SE5 (soft seat, sleeper)

15:30

02:19

From $19.60

Train SE7 (soft seat, sleeper)

6:10

16:35

From $16.50

Train SE19 (soft seat, sleeper)

19:50

06:02

From $19.80

Train TN3 (soft seat, sleeper)

12:25

23:20

From $21.80

Train TN5 (soft seat, sleeper)

15:30

02:14

From $21.00

Violette Trains SE1 (sleeper)

22:00

07:43

From $74.00

Violette Trains SE3 (sleeper)

19:20

05:21

From $74.00

Livitrans Express SE3 (sleeper)

19:20

05:21

From $72.00

Laman Express SE1 (sleeper)

22:20

07:45

From $78.00

Lotus Train SE19 (sleeper)

19:50

06:02

From $78.00


🚍 Bus from Hanoi to Dong Hoi / Phong Nha – Schedule + Bus Tickets:

Bus Schedule - Hanoi to Dong Hoi

Departs in Hanoi

Arrival in Dong Hoi

Tan Kim Chi

16:00

02:30

Hung Thanh

18:30

03:30

Hung Thanh

19:00

04:00

Hoang Long

07:00

16:30

Hoang Long

13:00

22:30

Hoang Long

20:00

05:30

Hoang Long

21:30

07:00

Techbus VN

17:30

04:30 (Phong Nha)

Techbus VN

17:45

04:45 (Phong Nha)

Techbus VN

18:00

05:00 (Phong Nha)

Grouptour

17:45

05:45 (Phong Nha)

Grouptour

17:50

04:50 (Phong Nha)

Grouptour

18:00

06:00 (Phong Nha)

Hung Long

20:15

05:35 (Phong Nha)

Hung Long

20:30

05:50 (Phong Nha)

Duc Duong

16:30

02:30 (Phong Nha)

Duc Duong

17:45

03:45 (Phong Nha)

Green Trips

18:00

04:00 (Phong Nha)

Queen Cafe

18:45

04:45 (Phong Nha)

Sapa Disc.

17:30

01:30 (Phong Nha)

Sapa Disc.

20:15

05:15 (Phong Nha)

BOOK your HOTEL in Dong Hoi


🎫 Book your tickets / flights from Hanoi to Dong Hoi + Schedule:

Transport in Vietnam ➔

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