While in Vietnam, you can expect good standards of travel. Most major cities are well connected by road and railways. Sometimes the interiors can spring a few surprises, but one can avoid hassles by consulting the local people, who will be more than happy to help you out.
This Vietnam travel pages have general information about travelling Vietnam. Our Vietnam Destination Guide travel pages give you things to see and do in Vietnam. Read on and you will find all you need to know about transportation in and around Vietnam. Also visit our Vietnam Country Travel Guide for some local tips for your travels. For more local travel information, take a look at our destination transport guides:
Can Tho
Chau Doc
Da Lat
Da Nang
Hoi An
Hue
Mui Ne
Nha Trang
Phu Quoc
Sai Gon (HCMC)
Sa Pa
Vietnam Transportation Guide
By Air
Vietnam Travels is a good carrier connecting most major cities here. Sometimes there can be flight delays and changes in flight schedules and even in the type of aircraft. But take it positively with a sense of adventure and chances are that you'll enjoy every bit of it.
Visit our partner Air Valid for Airline Reviews and Information about Vietnam.
Flights to Vietnam
By Rail
Railways in Vietnam do not come up to the mark in comparison to other modes of transport. Other than a few good connections, the rail network leaves a lot to be desired. Most stations are located in remote areas that are not easily accessible. Going alone to these secluded stations should be avoided. However, there are some sound routes you can include in your train itinerary:
- Hanoi-Lao-Cai-Hekou (China)-Kunming (China)
- Hanoi-Saigon
- Hanoi-Lang Son-Beijing
The trains are very functional with no extra amenities. So anticipate your needs and stock up on eatables, reading material and other supplies.
By Road
If you want to explore Vietnam by road, be prepared to encounter a vast variation in the condition of roads across the length and breadth of the country. While the National Highways, especially National Highway No.1, is in perfect condition, secondary highways are rather unpredictable. One good thing is that most of the major tourist destinations are connected by National Highways. Roads in the rural interiors can be rather daunting, making even a short journey seem arduous.
Do not expect expressways or Autobahn standards. Road journeys here do not glide smoothly but can be bearable one moment and quite bumpy the next. The traffic is far from disciplined and roads are generally free for all. So calculate your journey time accordingly, adding an hour or two extra for all those minor interruptions like animals, birds and the human population strolling leisurely on the roads.
By Bus
The conventional buses here are nothing to write home about. They are often overcrowded and uncomfortable. If jostling with a sea of people is not your style, these are highly avoidable. It is much better to try the minivans which seat about 15 persons and ply on most busy routes. They are fun to venture into and a nice way to mingle with the local population. You can touch base with the real Vietnam travelling in these minivans. Information about these will be available easily at most hotels and bus stops.
By Foot
Negotiating through a crowded Vietnamese street calls for special skills. Be very careful while crossing roads, as the traffic can be reckless at times. Do not try to rush through a street. Take your own time finding your way without losing your cool. If you are at a loss, ask a traffic policeman to help you out. One golden rule is that once midway through a busy street, do not turn back as that can be hazardous.
