Travel Vietnam
Looking for an unforgettable holiday destination? Vietnam offers the perfect mix of rich culture, historic landmarks, and stunning natural beauty.
From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the tranquil waters of Ha Long Bay, Vietnam promises a one-of-a-kind experience.
Popular Bus Routes
Popular Train Routes
Best Places to Visit by Bus or Train
How to Get Around Vietnam
Getting around Vietnam is easy, with various transport options available. Buses and trains are popular for long-distance travel between major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang.
For shorter journeys, motorbikes and taxis are widely used, and domestic flights are an affordable option for travelling quickly between distant regions. Additionally, ride-hailing apps like Grab provide convenient and affordable transport in many cities.
Vietnam by Bus
Travelling by bus in Vietnam is a budget-friendly and convenient way to explore the country. Vietnam’s extensive bus network connects major cities, towns, and even remote areas.
For those travelling on a budget, sleeper buses are a great option for overnight trips, helping you save on accommodation while covering long distances. Local buses are also available for shorter trips within cities and towns.
Vietnam by Train
Travelling by train in Vietnam offers a scenic and comfortable way to explore the country. While trains may be slower than buses or flights, they offer a more relaxed and spacious experience.
Sleeper cabins are available for longer journeys, making overnight trips comfortable. For those who want to enjoy a slower, scenic route, the train is a great option to explore Vietnam.
Other Ways to Get Around Vietnam
In addition to buses and trains, there are several other convenient ways to travel in Vietnam. Motorbikes are a popular choice, especially for short distances and exploring rural areas. Many travellers rent motorbikes to enjoy more flexibility and access to off-the-beaten-path locations. For longer distances, domestic flights between cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang offer a quick and efficient way to travel. Ferries are also available for visiting some of Vietnam’s beautiful islands. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available in cities and provide a comfortable and affordable way to travel.
Bus companies in Vietnam
There are over 204 bus companies operating in Vietnam. 175 companies offer intercity bus lines, 0 companies drive airport shuttles, 0 companies operate regional and local lines, 2 bus companies offer bus rental and 1 companies offer bus tours. The bus companies are located in 29 cities throughout the country. The majority of companies can be found in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh.
175 intercity bus companies operating in Vietnam are very different in size. The largest Vietnam company Vietnam Railways connects more than 45 cities, whereas the smallest intercity bus company Thuan Hung Nha Trang only has service to 1 cities.
Below we have listed some of the most popular bus companies in Vietnam. Full list of bus companies in Vietnam can be found here.
What to see in Vietnam
As a visitor of Vietnam, you have lots of great Vietnam sights to visit. Some of the most popular sights are . That said, there are a lot of other sights in Vietnam worth visiting! Some of the sights do not have an entrance fee, whilst others charge for entrance. Below you will find a list of the most popular sights in Vietnam:
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Best Places to Visit in Vietnam
Vietnam is home to a variety of must-see destinations. Hanoi, the capital, is filled with history and lively street life. Ninh Binh is known for its limestone karsts and peaceful countryside.
Sapa attracts visitors with its terraced rice fields and mountain treks. Hue, the former imperial capital, is famous for its historical sites and temples, while Nha Trang is the perfect place to relax on beautiful beaches with clear waters.
Ninh Binh
Ninh Binh is often referred to as the "Ha Long Bay on land" because of its stunning limestone formations and scenic waterways. Located just a few hours from Hanoi, it’s an ideal destination for nature lovers seeking a peaceful escape.
Some of the top attractions include the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the ancient Hoa Lu capital. Visitors can explore the area by boat, cycle through the rice fields, or hike to viewpoints for panoramic views.
Popular Routes from Ninh Binh
Sapa
Sapa, a town in northern Vietnam, is renowned for its terraced rice fields, towering mountains, and diverse cultural heritage. Located near the Chinese border, Sapa is a hub for trekking and cultural exploration, especially of the ethnic Hmong and Red Dao communities.
Adventurous travellers can trek to Fansipan, the highest peak in Indochina, or simply soak in the stunning views of the Muong Hoa Valley.
Popular Routes from Sapa
Hue
Hue is located in central Vietnam and was once the country’s imperial capital. Known for its rich history, Hue is home to the vast Imperial City, a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with palaces, temples, and tombs.
Visitors can explore the Hue Citadel, the Thien Mu Pagoda, and the royal tombs that line the Perfume River. Hue offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial past and a serene, historic atmosphere.
Popular Routes from Hue
Hanoi
Hanoi, Vietnam’s bustling capital, is a vibrant city that blends a rich historical legacy with modern energy. Famous for its Old Quarter, Hanoi offers a maze of narrow streets filled with street vendors, shops, and colonial architecture.
Key landmarks include the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the Temple of Literature, and Hoan Kiem Lake. Hanoi’s cultural experiences, such as water puppet shows and its array of museums, make it a must-visit city.
Popular Routes from Hanoi
Nha Trang
Nha Trang is a coastal city known for its picturesque beaches, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. A top destination for both relaxation and adventure, visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkelling, diving, and boat tours to nearby islands.
Nha Trang is also home to the ancient Po Nagar Cham Towers and the Long Son Pagoda. With its luxury resorts and bustling beach scene, Nha Trang is a perfect escape for sun, sea, and relaxation.
Popular Routes from Nha Trang
How to Travel to Vietnam
Travelling to Vietnam is straightforward, with several international airports connecting major cities. Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport) and Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport) are the main entry points for international flights, offering connections from across Asia, Europe, and beyond.
Many airlines, including budget carriers, provide direct flights from various countries. For those already travelling within Southeast Asia, land crossings from Cambodia, Laos, and China are also possible by bus or train.
Before travelling, it’s important to check visa requirements, as many nationalities need a visa to enter Vietnam. Ensure you are up to date on the latest rules and regulations before your trip.
Why Travel to Vietnam
Vietnam is a diverse and exciting destination, offering a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and culture. Travellers can explore bustling cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, relax on the stunning beaches of Nha Trang and Da Nang, or trek through the scenic rice terraces of Sapa. The country’s rich cuisine, affordable travel options, and friendly locals make it a popular choice for tourists seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Whether you're interested in exploring historical landmarks, enjoying scenic landscapes, or simply unwinding at a coastal retreat, Vietnam offers something for every type of traveller.
Travel Tips for Vietnam
Check visa requirements: Ensure you have the correct visa before arrival, as many nationalities need one to enter Vietnam.
Learn basic Vietnamese phrases: Simple phrases like "hello" (xin chào) and "thank you" (cảm ơn) can enhance your interactions with locals.
Be prepared for traffic: The traffic, especially in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, can be chaotic. Cross streets cautiously.
Bargain at markets: Haggling is common in local markets, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices.
Carry cash: While major cities accept cards, cash is essential for smaller shops, street vendors, and rural areas.
Stay hydrated: The weather can be hot and humid, so always carry water, and avoid drinking tap water.
Respect local customs: Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites, and be mindful of local etiquette.
Vietnam Overview
Getting around | Bus, train, plane, motorbike taxis |
Best cities | Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang, Hoi An |
Top attractions | Ha Long Bay, Cu Chi Tunnels, Hoi An Ancient Town, My Son Sanctuary, Phong Nha Caves |
Best time to visit | November to April |
Popular islands | Phu Quoc, Cat Ba, Con Dao |
Currency | Vietnamese Dong (VND) |
Language | Vietnamese (English widely spoken in tourist areas) |
Local cuisine | Pho, Banh Mi, Bun Cha, Goi Cuon |
Cultural festivals | Tet (January/February), Mid-Autumn Festival (September/October), Hue Festival (April) |