Vietnam Transportation: How to Get Around the Country

Hanoi market train station where people drink something and watch train passing

When I first landed in Vietnam, the sheer variety of transportation options felt like a puzzle. 

Scooters zipped past in what seemed like chaotic harmony, buses honked their way through busy streets, and trains seemed like a quiet escape compared to the bustling cities. 

It was exciting—and, to be honest, a bit intimidating. But here’s the good news: navigating Vietnam transportation is way easier (and cheaper) than it looks at first glance.

Whether you’re cruising along the coastline on a rented scooter, 

hopping onto a sleeper train for a cross-country adventure, 

or simply taking a Grab car (l Southeast Asia’s version of Uber), 

you’ll find that Vietnam’s transportation network is both efficient and incredibly affordable. And trust me, figuring out when to use each option can make your trip so much smoother.

The best part?

 Most options cost far less than you’d expect.

In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know about transportation in Vietnam, including tips I’ve learned (some the hard way) during my travels. 

By the end, you’ll feel confident enough to navigate like a local, dodge common mistakes, and make the most of your budget.

So, buckle up—whether you’re looking to zip through city traffic, take a leisurely cruise down the Mekong Delta, or experience Vietnam’s famed sleeper trains, 

this complete guide to Vietnam transportation will help you pick the perfect ride for every step of your Vietnam trip journey.

Types of Transportation in Vietnam

Domestic Flights

VietJet Air airplane flying with a clear sky background, showcasing vibrant branding.

If you’re looking to explore Vietnam’s far-flung cities—say, traveling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City—but don’t have the luxury of time, domestic flights are hands-down the fastest way to go.

 Vietnam transportation is known for being budget-friendly, and flights are no exception.

 Believe it or not, a domestic flight often costs as little as $30, and if you book early, you might snag deals that are even cheaper than a train ticket.

Airlines to Consider:

There are a few airlines you’ll want to keep in mind when booking domestic flights.

 Vietnam Airlines offers the most polished experience, with good service and punctuality. 

If you’re hunting for even lower fares, VietJet Air and Bamboo Airways are excellent choices, though be prepared for the occasional delay. 

Pros of Domestic Flights:

Fast and time-saving: Let’s be real—Vietnam is long. Traveling from north to south by train or bus can take over 24 hours. But a domestic flight? Just an hour or two in the air, and you’re there.

Affordable prices: Tickets start as low as $30, and when booked in advance, they can cost even less than a train ticket. For travelers on a tight schedule, it’s a no-brainer.

Multiple flight options: With frequent flights connecting major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Da Nang, and Nha Trang, you’ll always find a schedule that works for you.

Cons of Domestic Flights:

Airport commutes: 

Airports in Vietnam are usually located outside city centers. While the flights themselves are quick, 

getting to and from the airport can add extra time and cost (think $10-$15 for a taxi or Grab car and scooter ride 2$). In contrast, buses and trains drop you right in the heart of the city.

Missed scenery: 

One of the most magical parts of Vietnam transportation is the journey itself. 

Trains and buses pass through jaw-dropping landscapes—rice paddies, misty mountains, and small villages that look straight out of a postcard. Flights? 

Well, you’ll be staring at clouds.

In my own experience, I used a flight to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi when I was short on time, and it saved me a ton of hassle.

 But honestly? I found myself missing the slower, scenic routes I had taken on other parts of my trip.

 If you’ve got time to spare, consider mixing flights with other modes of Vietnam transportation to soak in all the views this incredible country has to offer.

2. Trains

Created with RNI Films app. Profile 'Fuji Pro 160NS v.2 HC'

Traveling by train is one of the most iconic ways to experience Vietnam transportation, 

especially if you’re in no rush and want to soak in the country’s beauty. 

Vietnam’s rail network connects many major cities, including Hanoi, Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City, with plenty of scenic stops in between. 

If you’ve got the time and want a more immersive travel experience, trains are a fantastic option. 

Plus, sleeper cabins make overnight journeys surprisingly comfortable, so you can wake up refreshed and ready to explore your next destination. 

Pros of Taking Trains in Vietnam:

Scenic views: Vietnam’s train routes are some of the most beautiful in Southeast Asia. The Reunification Express, for example, offers stunning views of the countryside, rice paddies, and even the coastline as you travel from north to south.

Comfortable sleeper cabins: For longer journeys, sleeper cabins are a game-changer. They’re surprisingly cozy, and the gentle rocking of the train can actually help you sleep better. Plus, it’s a budget-friendly way to save on a night’s accommodation.

Affordable travel: Train tickets are reasonably priced, with short trips costing just a few dollars and longer rides still being much cheaper than flights.

Authentic experience: Traveling by train makes you feel like part of the local rhythm. It’s not just about getting from A to B—it’s about connecting with Vietnam’s people and culture in a more organic way.

Cons of Taking Trains in Vietnam:

Slower travel time: Trains are not the fastest option. For instance, traveling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City can take 30–40 hours by train, compared to just 2 hours by plane. If you’re in a hurry, this may not be ideal.

Limited routes: While the rail network covers many major cities, it doesn’t reach every destination. You might need to combine trains with buses or other transportation to get to smaller towns or remote areas.

3. Buses

Evening scene of commuters boarding a bus in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Buses are a crucial component of Vietnam transportation, 

offering an affordable and practical way to travel both within cities and across longer distances. 

Whether you’re hopping on a local bus to explore a city or boarding a sleeper bus for a cross-country journey, there’s a bus option for every traveler. 

Personally, I’ve found buses to be most useful for overnight trips, especially when I’ve needed to cover long distances without breaking the bank. 

However, the experience can vary greatly depending on the type of bus you choose.

1. Local Buses

Local buses are one of the cheapest ways to navigate cities in Vietnam. 

Fares are so low they’re almost free—just a few cents for a ride! 

But here’s the thing: local buses can get incredibly crowded, especially during rush hours. 

Imagine squeezing into a bus packed with locals, standing shoulder-to-shoulder while trying to figure out when to hop off—it’s not exactly ideal for most travelers.

For me, while local buses are a valid part of Vietnam transportation, I’d choose a scooter taxi instead nine times out of ten.

 The price difference is usually just around 50 cents, but the flexibility and comfort of a scooter make it so much better. 

2. Sleeper Buses

Sleeper buses, on the other hand, are an entirely different story—and they’re my absolute favorite option for trips longer than five hours. 

If you’re traveling between cities, like Hanoi to Sapa or Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat, sleeper buses are a lifesaver.

 These buses are specifically designed for long-haul travel, with reclining seats that let you lie down and rest comfortably.  

One of the biggest perks of sleeper buses is that they allow you to travel overnight. 

This not only saves you the cost of a night’s accommodation but also maximizes your time during the day to explore. 

On one of my trips from Hanoi to Sapa, I booked a sleeper bus that departed in the evening. I woke up to breathtaking mountain views, feeling refreshed and ready for adventure. 

It felt like such a win—comfortable travel, incredible scenery, and zero time wasted.

Pros of Buses:

Local buses: 

Extremely cheap, making them an affordable part of Vietnam transportation for short trips within cities.

Sleeper buses: 

Perfect for long-distance travel, offering comfort and convenience while also showcasing Vietnam’s stunning landscapes. 

And also allow you to travel overnight, making them ideal for budget travelers who want to save on accommodation.

Cons of Buses:

Local buses:

Crowded and not the most tourist-friendly option 

Sleeper buses: 

While generally comfortable, they aren’t as private as trains or flights, and the experience depends on the bus operator.

4. Rent a Motorbikes and Scooters

If you’re the adventurous type who loves the idea of exploring Vietnam at your own pace, renting a motorbike or scooter is hands-down the best option. 

Vietnam transportation is synonymous with scooters—you’ll see locals zipping through chaotic city streets, winding mountain roads, 

and coastal highways. It’s an incredible way to discover hidden gems, scenic routes, and remote villages that are off the beaten path. 

And the cost? Unbelievably cheap. 

You can rent a scooter for just $2–$4 a day, making it one of the most affordable ways to travel around Vietnam.

That said, riding a scooter in Vietnam isn’t for the faint-hearted or beginners. 

The traffic, especially in cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, is, well, organized chaos. The roads are packed with bikes, cars, buses, and pedestrians all moving unpredictably. 

Pros of Renting a Scooter:

Complete freedom: You can explore at your own pace, discovering hidden gems, remote villages, and scenic backroads that buses or taxis can’t reach.

Cost-effective: Renting a scooter is one of the cheapest options for Vietnam transportation, with prices ranging from $2 to $4 per day.

Immersive experience: Riding through the countryside or along the coast allows you to connect with Vietnam in a unique way.

Cons of Renting a Scooter:

Not for beginners: Vietnam’s traffic is hectic, and driving here requires skill, confidence, and quick reflexes.

Safety concerns: Accidents can happen, so it’s vital to wear a helmet, drive cautiously, and follow the rules.

5. Taxi scooter

Tet flower street in Vietnam

If  you’re exploring cities like Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh, taking a scooter taxi is, 

without a doubt, one of the best ways to get around. Vietnam transportation in urban areas thrives on scooters, 

and apps like Grab make it incredibly easy to book a ride at the tap of a button. 

Honestly, compared to crowded buses or walking long distances in the heat, hopping on the back of a scooter is both faster and more convenient. 

Plus, the cost? 

It’s almost laughable—a typical ride will set you back just $1 or even less, depending on the distance.

Pros of Scooter Taxis:

Convenient for short distances: Whether you’re heading to a nearby café, a temple, or even just to grab a meal, scooters are ideal for short city trips. You’ll skip the hassle of waiting for buses and avoid being stuck in traffic jams that traditional taxis can’t escape.

Affordable prices: Apps like Grab not only make booking a scooter easy but also offer incredibly low fares. Sometimes, if you’ve accumulated points or there’s a promotion, you can even score a free ride!

Time-saving: With how congested Vietnam’s streets can get, scooters can weave through traffic much faster than cars or buses, saving you tons of time.

Cons of Scooter Taxis:

Not ideal for luggage: If you’re traveling with suitcases or heavy bags, a scooter isn’t practical. You’ll either have to use a bus or opt for a traditional taxi instead.

Slightly pricier than buses: While scooter rides are cheap, buses are often the absolute cheapest option. If you’re on an extremely tight budget, buses might be the better choice for getting around

Conclusion

Vietnam’s transportation options offer something for every traveler, whether you’re backpacking on a budget or seeking comfort and convenience.

By understanding the pros and cons of each mode, you can navigate Vietnam with ease, from bustling cities to serene countryside. With a bit of planning and flexibility, getting around Vietnam can be as exciting as the destinations themselves!

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