Introduction
Wrapped around the east coast of mainland Southeast Asia, Vietnam naturally lends itself to overland travel. The country’s two biggest cities - Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) - are divided by 1100km of diverse landscapes, and most people plot an itinerary taking in both hubs. How you traverse the country is up to you: options range from the Reunification Express train and local buses to motorcycles and boats. If arriving from neighboring countries, trains and buses provide easy access from China, Cambodia, and Laos.
1. Reunification Express Train
- Ticket Classes: Hard seat, soft seat, hard sleeper, and soft sleeper (available in AC and non-AC options).
- Where to Book: Railway stations, or online via Bao Lau and 12Go.Asia.
- Note: The official Vietnam Railways website requires a Vietnamese credit card.
The country’s main railway line weaves along the coast between Hanoi and HCMC, making it the obvious choice with great views. Trains classified as SE (Super Express) are the smartest and fastest, while TN (Thong Nhat) trains are slower and less comfortable. The network also connects Hanoi to Haiphong, Lao Cai (for Sapa), and into China.
2. Bus Travel
- Options: “Open Tour” buses for major cities, standard services from dedicated stations, and deluxe sleeper buses.
- Booking: Ticket offices at stations, or online via companies like the Sinh Tourist and Mai Linh Express.
Bus travel in Vietnam is rarely expensive. “Open Tour” buses allow you to hop-on and hop-off at major cities along the route, with central pick-up points. Deluxe sleeper services offer reclining seats or horizontal beds, though you might need earplugs to sleep through onboard entertainment. Keep in mind that road travel is never fast due to heavy traffic, averaging around 50km per hour.
3. Motorbikes
- Rental Cost: Around US$10 per day for a low-powered scooter in tourist hubs.
- Driver Services: Around US$30 per day if you prefer to hire a local rider.
Riding the length of Vietnam is a dream for many, but local driving conditions mean it is not for novices. For safety and legal reasons, always wear a motorcycle helmet and secure an International Driving Permit; otherwise, your travel insurance is unlikely to cover accidents.
4. Car and Driver
- Cost: US$60 to US$150 per day plus petrol (driver covers their own food and accommodation).
- Vehicle type: A 2WD is fine for lowlands, but a 4WD is needed for the mountainous north.
Self-drive rental cars are almost impossible to find. However, it is easy to rent a vehicle with a driver who can double as an informal tour guide. This saves you from worrying about local driving licenses or extra car insurance.
5. Domestic Flights
- Airlines: Bamboo Airways, Pacific Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Vietnam Airlines.
- Reliability: Vietnam Airlines has the most reliable schedules and the best safety rating.
Domestic flights are an economical way to travel if you are short on time. However, cancellations are common, so avoid leaving a short gap between a domestic flight and an international connection.
6. Boats and Ferries
Traveling by boat is an evocative way to explore Vietnam’s rivers and islands. The Mekong River is a major thoroughfare, and day cruises are popular in cities like HCMC, Hoi An, and Nha Trang. Ferries also provide access to offshore destinations like Phu Quoc, the Cham Islands, Halong Bay, and Con Dao. Be prepared for disruptions during the typhoon season from May to December.
7. City Transport
Cities are easily explored via various inexpensive methods. Taxis from reputable companies like Mai Linh and Vinasun are available, along with rideshare apps such as Grab, Xanh SM, or Be. For navigating heavy traffic quickly, xe om (motorcycle taxis) are a great option, though luggage space is limited. Cycle rickshaws, known as cyclos, offer a fun way to sightsee, but always agree on a fare before starting your journey.