Getting Around Detail

Getting to Viet Nam

By air

Vietnam is well-connected via 10 international airports, with Noi Bai International Airport (Hanoi), Tan Son Nhat International Airport (Ho Chi Minh City), and Da Nang International Airport being the primary gateways. Major airlines like Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways offer frequent flights from global hubs like London, Tokyo, and Sydney. Domestic flights are affordable (starting at ~$30 USD one-way) and ideal for covering long distances, such as Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City (2 hours). Book early during peak seasons (e.g., Tết) to secure better fares.

By land

Vietnam shares borders with China, Laos, and Cambodia, with several land crossings:

China: Hekou-Lao Cai (near Sa Pa), Huu Nghi - Youyi Guan, Mong Cai - Dongxing, You for rail or bus connections.
Laos: Cau Treo and Nam Can for bus travel.
Cambodia: Moc Bai-Bavet is popular for buses from Phnom Penh to Ho Chi Minh City. Ensure your visa is arranged, as e-visas are valid at specific land borders. Road conditions vary, so plan for potential delays.

By Sea

Vietnam welcomes cruise ships at ports like Ha Long Bay, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City. E-visas are accepted at 13 seaports. Ferries from Cambodia via the Mekong River offer a scenic entry, docking at Chau Doc. Check cruise or ferry schedules in advance, as they vary seasonally.

Getting to Viet Nam with Vietnam Airlines

As the national carrier, Vietnam Airlines operates extensive international routes to Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang from cities like Tokyo, Seoul, and Paris. Known for reliability and excellent service, it's ideal for both business and leisure travelers. Domestic flights connect 22 airports, with frequent routes like Hanoi-Da Nang or Ho Chi Minh City-Phu Quoc. Book early for deals, especially during holidays.

Getting Around Viet Nam

Public Transport in Viet Nam

Vietnam's public transport includes buses, trains, and emerging metro systems, offering affordable and diverse options:

Buses: Local buses in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang cost ~7,000-15,000 VND ($0.30-$0.65 USD) per ride. Interprovincial sleeper buses (e.g., Hanoi to Sa Pa, 5-6 hours, $6-$20 USD) are popular for budget travelers. Book via companies like Futa Bus or Sinh Tourist for reliability.
Trains: The Reunification Express connects Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City (30-36 hours, $20-$80 USD), offering scenic views along the Hai Van Pass. Choose soft sleeper berths for comfort. Book tickets via Vietnam Railways' website (ds vn.vn) or agencies
Cyclos: Traditional bicycle rickshaws in Hanoi and Hue provide a leisurely way to explore city sights, costing ~50,000-100,000 VND per ride. Agree on prices beforehand.

How to Use the Metro (Hanoi & Ho Chi Minh City)

Vietnam's public transport includes buses, trains, and emerging metro systems, offering affordable and diverse options:

Hanoi Metro: Line 2A (Cat Linh-Ha Dong) and Line 3 (Cau Giay-Nhon) serve key areas like Dong Da and the Temple of Literature. Fares range from 7,000-15,000 VND ($0.30-$0.65 USD). Buy single-journey tickets or weekly/monthly passes at stations using cash or contactless cards. Check maps at stations or online for routes.
Ho Chi Minh City Metro: Line 1 (Ben Thanh-Suoi Tien) opened in December 2024, connecting District 1 to Thao Dien in District 2. Fares are similar to Hanoi's. Tickets are available at vending machines or counters, with English support. Avoid peak hours to bypass crowds.

Vietnam Tram

Tram systems are limited but growing. Hanoi operates eco-friendly electric trams in tourist areas like Hoan Kiem, covering routes near the Opera House and Quan Su Pagoda. Fares are ~20,000-50,000 VND. These trams are ideal for short, scenic rides in central areas. Ho Chi Minh City has plans for tram lines, but they are not yet operational.

Water Transport

Vietnam's waterways offer unique travel experiences:

Ferries and Speedboats: Connect islands like Phu Quoc, Cat Ba, and Con Dao. For example, high-speed boats from Ha Long to Cat Ba take ~45 minutes ($10-$15 USD). Book via operators like Cat Ba Express.
Mekong Delta: Traditional boats or tours explore floating markets like Cai Rang in Can Tho. English-guided tours cost ~$20-$50 USD. Schedules may pause in the dry season.
Ha Long Bay: Overnight cruises or day trips are popular, starting at ~$50 USD for a day tour. Book through reputable operators like Handspan Travel.

Taxi Services

Taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient, especially in cities:

Traditional Taxi: Use reputable companies like Mai Linh or Vinasun (Hanoi: +84 43 861 6161; Ho Chi Minh City: +84 83 811 0888). Fares start at ~12,000 VND for the first kilometer, plus 10,000-15,000 VND per additional kilometer. Confirm the meter is running.
Ride-Hailing Apps: Grab, Be, and Xanh SM offer cars and motorbike taxis (xe ôm) in cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. Fares are transparent (e.g., ~50,000 VND for a 5km ride). Use a Vietnamese SIM card for app access and cashless payments. Avoid freelance xe ôm to prevent overcharging.

Things to Note

Visa Requirements: Check if your nationality qualifies for visa-free entry (27 countries, e.g., Japan, Germany) or apply for an e-visa (all nationalities, $25-$50 USD, 90 days). Verify entry points for e-visas (13 airports, 16 land borders, 13 seaports).
Safety: Wear helmets on motorbike taxis and avoid renting motorbikes unless experienced, as traffic in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is chaotic. Secure belongings to prevent pickpocketing.
Booking Tips: Book flights, trains, and buses in advance, especially during holidays like Tết. Use apps like Klook, 12go.asia, or Baolau for tickets.
Language Barrier: Public transport signs may be in Vietnamese. Use Google Translate or write destinations for drivers.
Peak Hours: Avoid buses and metros during rush hours (7-9 AM, 5-7 PM) for less crowding.