🛵 Travel by motorbike
🚍 Travel by bus / van
🚆 Travel by train
🚕 Travel by private taxi
🚲 Travel by bicycle
✈️ Travel by plane
🚢 Travel by ferry / boat
🚶 Book a Tour Online
🎫 Book Tickets Online
Bus / Van
Cheapest, wide network, sleeper & VIP options
Train (tourist / regular)
Safer, scenic routes, sleeper cabins
Flights
Fastest, frequent routes, good prices
Motorbike
Risky for beginners, chaotic traffic
Quick answer: The best way to travel in Vietnam is by train, bus/van or flights. Choose based on distance, budget and comfort. Tickets and flights can be easily searched and booked online in advance.
Best transport options in Vietnam:
- 🚍 Bus / Van: Cheapest and widely available
- 🚆 Train: Comfortable, scenic, safer for long distances
- ✈️ Plane: Fastest for long routes (Hanoi ↔ Ho Chi Minh City)
- 🚕 Taxi / Car: Easy for city travel and transfers
- 🛵 Motorbike: Flexible, but only for experienced riders
- 🚢 Ferry / Boat: Required for islands (Phu Quoc, Cat Ba)
Tip: For most travelers, a combination of train + bus/van is the best balance of price and comfort.
Last updated: April 2026
🎫 Baolau
Search and book train, bus, ferry and flight tickets in Vietnam online with schedules and e-tickets.
🚌 12go.asia
Popular platform for buses, trains, ferries, private transfers and domestic transport in Vietnam.
Transportation options in Vietnam:
🚗 Transportation in Vietnam – what to expect:
- ✔ busy and often chaotic traffic, especially in big cities
- ✔ motorbikes dominate the roads
- ✔ traffic rules are not always strictly followed
Getting around Vietnam can feel overwhelming at first, but most traffic flows surprisingly smoothly.
In major cities, expect heavy traffic, while smaller towns are more relaxed.
💡 Tip: Stay calm, move slowly, and observe local drivers.
Adapting to the traffic style is the key to safe travel in Vietnam.
Transportation in Vietnam can feel chaotic, especially in large cities where motorbikes dominate the roads.
Traffic rules are not always strictly followed, and you may see vehicles driving in unexpected ways.
Despite this, traffic usually flows smoothly once you get used to it.
In smaller towns and rural areas, the situation is much calmer and easier to navigate.
The key is to stay calm, move slowly, and adapt to local traffic behavior.
With a bit of patience, getting around Vietnam becomes much easier and even enjoyable.
Grab & Gojek in Vietnam: Best Ride-Hailing Apps for City Transport
In cities like Hanoi, Da Nang, Nha Trang and Ho Chi Minh City, the easiest way to get around is by using ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek.
These apps offer cheap and convenient transportation by car or motorbike, often much cheaper than traditional taxis. You can book a ride within seconds, track your driver and see the price in advance.
📱 Easy booking
Quick ride booking through a mobile app for Android and iPhone devices.
💰 Affordable prices
Prices are often lower than regular taxi services in Vietnam.
💳 Cash or card payment
Most rides can be paid in cash or cashlessly directly in the app.
📍 Fast pickup
Driver availability is usually very good in larger Vietnamese cities.
🧾 Transparent pricing
After each ride, you receive a digital receipt with a detailed fare breakdown.
📶 Mobile internet
For the best experience, it is recommended to use a Vietnamese SIM card with mobile data.
1. TRAVELING ON A MOTORBIKE IN VIETNAM:
👉 Motorbike travel in Vietnam for maximum freedom and adventure.
- ✔️ Good for: experienced riders and independent travelers
- ✔️ Duration: flexible (depends on your route and stops)
- ✔️ Price: $7–15 per day (rental)
- ✔️ Comfort: low to moderate (depends on road conditions and experience)
- ✅ Best option: Rent a reliable motorbike (e.g. Honda) or join a guided motorbike tour with a driver
- 💡 Tip: Bring an international driving license, always wear a helmet, and avoid riding in busy cities if inexperienced.
Renting a motorbike in Vietnam is one of the most popular and flexible ways to travel. Prices are affordable (around $7–15/day), and long-term rentals are even cheaper.
Important: You should have a valid international driving license to ride legally in Vietnam.
- 🛵 Great freedom to explore remote and less touristy places
- 💰 Cheap and widely available across the country
- ⛰️ Stronger bikes (e.g. Honda) are better for mountains
Safety: Traffic in cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City is chaotic and unpredictable. Motorbike travel is recommended mainly for experienced riders. Always wear a helmet and ride carefully.
Tip: Check the motorbike condition before renting and choose a reliable model.
⚠️ Warning: In Ha Giang, police checks have increased. You may be asked for valid documents, including an international driving license. Without it, you risk fines or bike confiscation. Similar checks can happen elsewhere.
🏍️ Where to Rent or Buy a Motorbike in Vietnam?
Motorbike rental shops are common in tourist cities like Hanoi, Ha Giang, Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City. Signs such as “Motorbike for Rent” or the Vietnamese phrase “Cho thuê xe máy” usually indicate rental shops nearby.
📍 Popular Rental Companies
- RentABikeVN – rentals and motorbike tours in Hanoi, Ha Giang and Da Nang
- Phung Motorbike – motorbike rental and sales in Hanoi
- Tigit Motorbikes – popular long-term rental company in Vietnam
🌏 Traveler Communities
- Travelswop – travelers selling used motorbikes in Vietnam
- Backpacking Vietnam by Bike – Facebook group for rentals and sales
Motorcycles for rent or sale in Vietnam:
| Brand | Best for |
|---|---|
| Honda | Most popular and reliable choice, easy to repair (Wave, Blade, Future) |
| Suzuki | Reliable alternative, good for longer rides (e.g. GS 125) |
| Yamaha | Stronger bikes, suitable for tougher terrain |
| Minsk | Cheap and “retro”, but less reliable |
| Piaggio | Stylish scooters (Vespa), ideal for city riding |
| SYM | Budget option for short distances and city use |
⚠️ Motorbike License Rules in Vietnam
Motorbike travel is very popular in Vietnam, but it is important to understand the basic driving and insurance rules.
📄 International License
Carry an international driving permit (IDP), especially for insurance purposes.
⚠️ Insurance & Fines
Without a valid license, you may face fines or pay accident costs yourself.
🛵 Motorbike Rental
Rental shops often do not check licenses, but always ask for registration papers.
⚙️ Best Bike Type
Semi-automatic motorbikes around 110cc are usually the best choice for travelers.
2. TRAVEL BY BUS / VAN IN VIETNAM:
👉 Affordable and widely available bus/van travel across Vietnam.
- ✔️ Good for: budget travelers and those exploring multiple regions
- ✔️ Duration: flexible (short city routes to long overnight journeys)
- ✔️ Price: low-cost (varies by distance and type of bus)
- ✔️ Comfort: low to moderate (higher in modern sleeper or tourist buses)
- ✅ Best option: Tourist or sleeper buses for long distances, minibuses/vans for shorter routes
- 💡 Tip: Expect delays, check routes in advance, and choose reputable companies for safer and more comfortable travel.
Buses, vans and minibuses are one of the most common and cheapest ways to travel in Vietnam. The network covers almost the entire country, including major cities and tourist routes.
- 🚍 Wide range: city buses, minivans, tourist and night sleeper buses
- 💰 Very affordable, ideal for budget travelers
- 🛏️ Night buses offer beds for long-distance travel
On some routes, especially in mountainous areas, travel can be slow and take longer than expected.
Important: Bus schedules are not always reliable, and delays are common. Buses may also stop frequently and can be crowded.
In cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, there are many connections to other regions. For more details, see bus travel in Vietnam.
Tip: If a train is available on your route, it is usually more comfortable than a bus.
| Bus Types in Vietnam: | Description |
|---|---|
| Local City Bus | Affordable buses that operate within city limits, serving the local population for daily commuting. |
| Intercity Bus | Long-distance buses connecting different cities and towns across Vietnam, offering comfortable travel for passengers. |
| Sleeper Bus | Buses equipped with reclining seats or beds, suitable for overnight journeys between major cities, providing sleeping arrangements for passengers. |
| Open Tour Bus | Tourist buses that travel along popular routes, such as the north-south route, offering flexibility for travelers to hop on and off at various destinations. |
| Mini Bus | Small-sized buses or vans used for short-distance transportation, often used for private hire or group tours. |
| Express Bus | High-speed buses that provide quick and direct transportation between major cities, reducing travel time for passengers. |
🎫 How to Book Bus Tickets in Vietnam
The easiest way to book bus, train, ferry tickets or flights in Vietnam is online. Tickets can be searched and booked in advance in just a few clicks.
🚌 Baolau
Popular booking platform for trains, buses, ferries and domestic flights in Vietnam.
🚌 12go.asia
Search schedules, compare routes and book transport tickets across Vietnam.
📅 Updated schedules
Current departure times, ticket prices and route availability online.
💳 Secure payment
Most booking platforms support Visa, Mastercard, PayPal and other payment methods.
📩 Instant e-ticket
Tickets are usually delivered instantly by email for mobile or printed use.
Popular Bus Routes in Vietnam
1. Hanoi → Sapa
Bus, train and sleeper routes to northern mountain regions.
2. Hanoi → Ha Giang
Popular route to the Ha Giang Loop and mountain areas.
3. Hanoi → Ha Long
Tourist buses, limousines and private transfers to Ha Long Bay.
4. Hanoi → Ninh Binh
Easy access to Tam Coc, Trang An and Ninh Binh attractions.
5. Da Nang → Hue
Scenic coastal route by train, bus or private transfer.
6. Saigon → Mui Ne
Popular beach destination reachable by sleeper bus or train.
7. Saigon → Can Tho
Gateway to the Mekong Delta and floating markets.
8. Hue → Hoi An
One of the most popular travel routes in central Vietnam.
9. Nha Trang → Da Lat
Travel from Vietnam’s coastline to the mountain city of Da Lat.
How to Get from Noi Bai Airport to Hanoi City Center
There are several easy ways to get from Noi Bai Airport to the center of Hanoi.
- 🚌 Bus 86 (best option): cheap (~$1.5), comfortable, Wi-Fi, runs 5:00–22:00 to Hanoi Train Station
- 🚍 Public buses: lines 7, 17, 90 – very cheap but slower and less convenient
- 🚐 Minibuses: operated by airlines and private companies, moderate price
- 🚕 Taxi: $13–20, faster but more expensive
Tip: Bus 86 is the best balance of price, comfort, and reliability for most travelers.
3. TRAVEL BY TRAIN IN VIETNAM:
👉 Scenic and safe train travel across Vietnam with various comfort levels.
- ✔️ Good for: travelers seeking comfort, safety and scenic journeys
- ✔️ Duration: medium to long distances (depending on route)
- ✔️ Price: low to moderate (higher for sleeper or tourist trains)
- ✔️ Comfort: moderate to high (best in sleeper cabins or tourist trains)
- ✅ Best option: Sleeper cabins (SE trains) or tourist trains like Livitrans or Violette Train
- 💡 Tip: Avoid hard seats for long trips and book tickets online in advance, especially for sleeper berths.
Train travel in Vietnam is a safe, affordable and comfortable way to explore the country.
- 🚆 Vietnam Railways: main operator connecting north–south Vietnam
- 💺 Seat types: soft seat (comfortable) vs. hard seat (basic, less recommended)
- 🛏️ Sleeper trains: SE1–SE4 or tourist trains (better comfort for long trips)
- ❄️ Air-conditioned coaches: common and comfortable for most routes
- 🍜 Onboard service: snacks, drinks and simple meals available
Train routes cover major cities, especially the main north–south line. For planning, check the Vietnam Railway Map.
Tip: For long distances, sleeper trains offer the best balance of comfort and price.
In Hanoi, you can also use the metro, though the network is still limited.
| Train Type | Summary |
|---|---|
| SE | Main long-distance trains (Hanoi ↔ Ho Chi Minh City), best for most travelers |
| TN | Slow local trains with many stops, basic comfort |
| DT | Day trains for shorter routes and scenic travel |
| NT | Night trains with sleeper cabins for long distances |
| LC | Local commuter trains around cities |
| SP | Faster trains on selected routes |
🚆 How to Book Train Tickets in Vietnam
Train tickets in Vietnam are best booked online in advance, especially for sleeper trains and popular long-distance routes.
🚆 Baolau
Popular booking platform for Vietnam Railways trains, buses, ferries and flights.
🛏️ 12go.asia
Compare train schedules, seat classes and sleeper cabins across Vietnam.
📅 Updated schedules
See current train schedules, prices and available seats online.
📩 Mobile e-tickets
E-tickets are delivered by email and can be shown directly on your phone.
🎟️ Station ticket offices
Tickets can also be purchased at railway stations, but some trains sell out quickly.
🚆 Train Seats & Sleeper Options in Vietnam
Vietnamese trains offer different seat and sleeper classes for short and long-distance travel across the country.
1. Hard Seat
The cheapest option with basic seating, suitable mainly for short daytime journeys.
2. Soft Seat
More comfortable padded seats with air-conditioning for medium-distance routes.
3. Hard Sleeper
Budget sleeper beds in shared cabins, usually with 3–6 berths.
4. Soft Sleeper
The most comfortable train option with soft beds in 4-berth air-conditioned cabins.
5. Private Cabins
Some trains offer private or semi-private cabins for couples, groups or families.
The night trains from Hanoi to Lao Cai (Sapa):
Many travelers go to Sapa (Lao Cai train station) by the overnight trains. These trains may be from Vietnam Railways with less comfort (ofic.viet.railways) or also from private tourist companies, 2-4 or 6 seats or berth cabin in the train, but also more expensive (Orient Express, King Express, Fansipan, Sapaly, PV2…).
| Train to Lao Cai from Hanoi: | Information |
|---|---|
| Vietnam Railways |
|
| Private Companies |
|
4. TRAVEL BY PRIVATE TAXI/CAR IN VIETNAM:
👉 Convenient private taxi/car transport for quick urban and short-distance travel in Vietnam.
- ✔️ Good for: city travel, airport transfers and travelers seeking convenience
- ✔️ Duration: flexible (short to medium distances)
- ✔️ Price: ~15,000–25,000 VND/km (~$15–20 for airport transfers)
- ✔️ Comfort: moderate to high (depends on taxi company and vehicle)
- ✅ Best option: Reputable companies like Mai Linh, Vinasun or Taxi Group
- 💡 Tip: Always use the meter, carry small cash, and use GPS on your phone to track the route.
Taxi in Vietnam is widely available in big cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang or Nha Trang. It’s a convenient option for short distances, but more expensive than buses or trains.
- Average price: about 15,000–25,000 VND per km
- Airport transfer (e.g. Noi Bai Airport → Hanoi center): approx. $15–20 per car
- Best availability in major cities, limited in rural or mountain areas
- Always use a taxi meter and check the route on your phone
- Carry small cash (drivers may not have change)
Tip: For cheaper and more reliable rides, use mobile apps like Grab or Gojek.
| Service | Summary |
|---|---|
| Vinasun | Reliable taxi company, metered rides, common in big cities |
| Mai Linh | Trusted brand, good service, widely available |
| Grab | Popular app, cheaper prices, clear fares, cashless payment |
| GrabCar | Car option in Grab app, comfortable and easy booking |
5. TRAVEL BY BICYCLE IN VIETNAM:
👉 Scenic bicycle travel in Vietnam for relaxed exploration and local experiences.
- ✔️ Good for: slow travelers, nature lovers and short-distance exploration
- ✔️ Duration: flexible (ideal for short routes and local trips)
- ✔️ Price: $5–7 per day (rental)
- ✔️ Comfort: low to moderate (depends on terrain and weather)
- ✅ Best option: Rent a bicycle locally or join organized cycling tours in rural areas
- 💡 Tip: Avoid busy cities if inexperienced, wear a helmet, and stay hydrated in hot weather.
Cycling in Vietnam is a great way to explore rice fields, villages and countryside at your own pace. It’s best in flat areas like Ninh Binh or Mai Chau.
- Rental price: approx. $3–7 per day (widely available)
- Ideal for short trips in rural and lowland areas
- Less suitable in big cities due to heavy traffic
- Mountain roads can be difficult and sometimes dangerous
- Hot and humid weather can make cycling challenging
Tip: Guided cycling tours are available in many tourist areas.
Safety: Always wear a helmet, follow traffic rules, stay hydrated and ride carefully. If you’re not experienced, avoid busy cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
6. TRAVEL BY PLANE IN VIETNAM:
👉 Fast and efficient air travel across Vietnam for long distances.
- ✔️ Good for: travelers short on time and long-distance routes
- ✔️ Duration: ~1–2 hours (major domestic routes)
- ✔️ Price: $40–170 per person
- ✔️ Comfort: high (modern aircraft and frequent flights)
- ✅ Best option: Direct flights with Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air or Bamboo Airways
- 💡 Tip: Book flights online in advance, arrive early at the airport, and use flights mainly for long distances or international travel.
Domestic flights in Vietnam are the fastest and most convenient way to travel between major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang or Phu Quoc.
- Flight time Hanoi → Ho Chi Minh City: ~2 hours
- Prices usually start from $40–60
- Frequent daily connections across the country
Main airlines include Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways and Pacific Airlines, offering both low-cost and full-service options.
Tickets can be easily booked online via Baolau or 12go.asia.
Tip: Book in advance and arrive at the airport early, especially in peak season.
| Airline | Summary |
|---|---|
| Vietnam Airlines | Full-service, reliable, higher comfort |
| VietJet Air | Low-cost, cheap fares, frequent flights |
| Bamboo Airways | Good comfort, growing network |
| Pacific Airlines | Budget option for domestic routes |
Domestic flights and flights from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City:
Vietnam’s major airports in Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City or Phu Quoc offer convenient connections to a host of other cities within the country. With domestic flights operated by Vietnamese airlines, travelers can easily hop between key destinations such as Dien Bien Phu, Hai Phong, Vinh, Dong Hoi, Hue, Da Nang (Hoi An), Chu Lai, Pleiku, Nha Trang, Da Lat, Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, Phu Quoc, and Con Dao.
These domestic flights provide a quick and efficient means of traveling across Vietnam, allowing passengers to explore the country’s diverse landscapes and cultural attractions with ease. Whether you’re embarking on a city break, beach getaway, or cultural tour, domestic flights offer flexibility and convenience, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable travel experience from takeoff to touchdown.
BOOK CHEAP FLIGHTS to Vietnam ➜
7. TRAVEL BY FERRY / BOAT IN VIETNAM:
👉 Scenic ferry/boat travel in Vietnam for reaching islands and coastal destinations.
- ✔️ Good for: island travel and coastal exploration
- ✔️ Duration: flexible (short to medium routes depending on destination)
- ✔️ Price: affordable (varies by distance and route)
- ✔️ Comfort: moderate (basic seating to larger vessels with amenities)
- ✅ Best option: Regular ferry services to islands like Phu Quoc, Cat Ba or Con Dao
- 💡 Tip: Check weather conditions, arrive early in peak season, and book tickets in advance when possible.
Ferry and boat transport in Vietnam is an important way to reach islands and coastal areas. It connects popular destinations like Cat Ba Island, Phu Quoc, Con Dao or the Cham Islands.
Ferries operate on many routes across Vietnam and are commonly used by both locals and tourists. You can choose from smaller local boats or larger modern ferries, depending on the distance and location.
- Regular routes between mainland and islands
- Affordable prices based on distance
- Basic onboard facilities (seats, drinks, toilets)
Travel times and schedules can vary, especially in more remote areas. During high season, ferries can fill up quickly, so it’s recommended to arrive early or book tickets in advance.
Tip: Always check the weather forecast before traveling, as rough sea conditions or monsoon season can affect ferry schedules or cause cancellations. More information and tickets: Ferry routes in Vietnam
Popular tourist ferry and boat routes in Vietnam include:
| Northern Vietnam: | Hai Phong → Cat Ba Island / Ha Long (Van Don) → Quan Lan / Cai Rong → Quan Lan Island / Cai Rong → Co To Island / Tuan Chau → Cat Ba Island |
| Central Vietnam: | Hoi An → Cham Islands / Quang Ngai → Ly Son |
| Southern Vietnam: | Ha Tien → Phu Quoc Island / Rach Gia → Phu Quoc / Rach Gia → Nam Du Island / Rach Gia → Hon Tre / Rach Gia → Hon Son / Hon Tre → Hon Son / Ho Chi Minh City → Vung Tau / Soc Trang → Con Dao / Vung Tau → Con Dao / Chau Doc → Phnom Penh (Cambodia, border crossing) |
8. CYCLO TRANSPORTATION IN VIETNAM:
👉 Traditional cyclo ride for a slow and authentic city experience in Vietnam.
- ✔️ Good for: sightseeing in cities and cultural experiences
- ✔️ Duration: short rides (usually 30–120 minutes)
- ✔️ Price: low to moderate (depends on distance and negotiation)
- ✔️ Comfort: moderate (relaxed seating, open-air ride)
- ✅ Best option: Cyclo rides in cities like Hanoi, Hue or Hoi An
- 💡 Tip: Agree on the price before the ride and enjoy it mainly as a sightseeing experience, not transport.
Cyclo (three-wheeled bicycle taxi) is a traditional and unique way to explore cities in Vietnam. You’ll find it mainly in places like Hanoi, Hue, Hoi An or Ho Chi Minh City.
Cyclos move slowly, making them ideal for short sightseeing rides through historic streets, markets and local neighborhoods. It’s not the fastest transport, but it offers a more relaxed and authentic experience.
- Best for short city rides and sightseeing
- Available mainly in tourist areas
- Good opportunity to experience local culture
Tip: Always agree on the price before the ride to avoid misunderstandings.
While cyclos are more about the experience than transport, they remain a popular way to see Vietnam from a different perspective.
9. TRAVELING IN VIETNAM BY CAR:
👉 Flexible car travel in Vietnam for customized routes and comfort.
- ✔️ Good for: families, groups and travelers wanting flexibility
- ✔️ Duration: flexible (depends on itinerary)
- ✔️ Price: from ~$30 per day (varies by vehicle and service)
- ✔️ Comfort: high (private cars, SUVs, jeeps or minibuses)
- ✅ Best option: Rent a car with a driver for easy navigation and local expertise
- 💡 Tip: Self-driving requires a Vietnamese license, so most travelers should choose a car with a driver.
Traveling by car in Vietnam is a comfortable and flexible option, especially for private transfers or day trips. The most common choice is renting a car with a driver in cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
- Cars with driver available (sedan, SUV, minibus)
- Prices start from about $30/day (depends on distance and vehicle)
- Good for groups, families or private tours
Driving yourself is difficult, as a Vietnamese driving license is required (usually not possible on a tourist visa).
Tip: A car with driver is the easiest and safest option, especially for longer trips or less accessible areas.
While cars offer comfort and flexibility, they are less practical for remote areas with poor road conditions compared to motorbikes.
Popular Bus & Train Routes from Hanoi
Hanoi is the main transport hub in northern Vietnam, with many direct connections by bus or train.
| Destination | Transport |
|---|---|
| Ha Long Bay (Hai Phong) | Bus / Train |
| Sapa (Lao Cai) | Bus / Train |
| Ha Giang | Bus |
| Ninh Binh | Bus / Train |
| Cao Bang | Bus |
| Moc Chau | Bus |
| Mai Chau | Bus |
Tip: Tickets for these routes can be easily searched and booked online in advance.
