Quick Summary
- Long distance: Flights (cheap, 1-2 hrs)
- Scenic routes: Trains (Hanoi-Hue-Saigon)
- Budget option: Sleeper buses (overnight)
- Within cities: Grab app (like Uber)
Transport Options
Domestic Flights
Best for Hanoi ↔ Saigon (2 hrs vs 30+ by land). Vietnam Airlines, VietJet, and Bamboo Airways fly daily.
Price: $30-80 USD
Book 2-3 weeks ahead for deals
Major airports
Hanoi, Saigon, Da Nang, Nha Trang
Trains
The Reunification Express runs Hanoi → Hue → Da Nang → Saigon. Scenic coastal views. Book soft sleeper for overnight trips.
Hanoi → Hue: 13 hrs
Soft sleeper ~$40 USD
Hanoi → Saigon: 33 hrs
Soft sleeper ~$70 USD
Sleeper Buses
Budget-friendly overnight option. Lie-flat seats. Popular routes: Hanoi → Sapa, Hue → Hoi An, Saigon → Dalat.
Price: $10-25 USD
Book at hostels or 12go.asia
Tip
Bring earplugs and a blanket
City Transport
Use the Grab app (Southeast Asia's Uber). Safe, metered, no haggling. Available in all major cities.
GrabCar
Air-conditioned, 4-seater
GrabBike
Motorbike taxi, faster in traffic
Booking Tips
- •Flights: Book on airline websites directly for best prices
- •Trains: Use official Vietnam Railways site or 12go.asia
- •Peak seasons: Book trains/buses 1 week ahead during Tet
Official Resources
- Vietnam Airlines- National carrier
- Vietnam Railways- Train bookings
- 12go.asia- Multi-transport booking