How to travel in Vietnam: A complete guide to exploration across regions

Contents

There are many means of transportation for you to choose from in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Visiting Vietnam for the first time, chances are you will be concerned about how to travel in Vietnam. Fortunately, Vietnam offers a variety of transportation options. Read on to explore different means of transportation and find the one that best suits your Vietnam travel itinerary.

1. How to travel in Vietnam? – Top 5 most popular ways

1.1. How to travel around in Vietnam? – By motorbike

As Vietnam has heavy traffic, the best way to travel in Vietnam is by motorbike. Particularly, when you visit urban areas such as Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, you will find many narrow alleys and bustling streets that make motorbikes the ideal means of transportation. 

So, how to travel in Vietnam by motorbike? First, you will need to rent a motorbike, which is relatively easy to do in Vietnam. You can rent one from your hotel, a rental shop, or an online platform. It is essential to familiarize yourself with local traffic rules. In Vietnam, wearing a helmet is not only mandatory but also crucial for your safety.

When it comes to parking, you can either look for designated parking areas or simply follow the lead of the locals. Lastly, you will find that gas stations are abundant in Vietnam. You can refuel almost anywhere, and helpful staff are available to assist you in the process.

How to travel in Vietnam with ease? By motorbike (Source: Collected)

1.2. By car

How to travel in Vietnam by car? Cars are an excellent choice if you are planning to travel between cities in Vietnam. However, it is important to note that international driving permits are not valid in Vietnam.

However, you can opt to rent a car with a driver through various tour agencies. It is essential to ensure that the driver has a reasonable command of English to facilitate communication. Additionally, it is better to check the car’s conditions to avoid any unexpected surprises.

Before finalizing your car rental agreement, make sure you have a clear understanding of the terms and conditions. Discuss your intended destinations and itinerary with the rental shop or driver to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

1.3. How to travel between cities in Vietnam? – By bus

If you are looking for how to travel in Vietnam on a budget, the bus can be a cost-effective choice, especially for independent travelers. Most cities in Vietnam are accessible by bus.

Day buses typically make multiple stops for passengers along the way, so don’t expect a quick journey. Ensure that you show your exact destination to the staff, as there are often no signs at bus stations. Sleeper buses are a more popular option, offering convenience for long-distance travel.

Bus is also a popular means of transportation in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

1.4. By train

Traveling around Vietnam by train is a safe option. Vietnam’s railway stretches all the way from the capital city of Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Known as the “Reunification Express”, this train route spans over 30 hours for the entire journey. Every shorter route is a part of this railway, such as the Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang train. Train fares vary depending on seat classes, including soft seat, hard seat, sleeper berth.

1.5. By plane – the best way to travel long distance in Vietnam

Traveling by plane offers speed at a higher cost. It is the fastest way to get around the country, with most destinations accessible within a two-hour flight. This mode of transportation is especially suitable for travelers with tight schedules.

Vietnam Airlines is one of the largest domestic airlines in Vietnam, although it is also among the more expensive options. Budget-conscious travelers can explore alternatives like VietJet Air, which are available at most Vietnam airports.

Most popular flight routes in Vietnam include flights to Nha Trang, flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, and flights from Da Nang to Hanoi. Consider booking your flights early for the best flight deals.

If you are planning to take the plane, you should book your flight early (Source: Collected)

>>> Check out the Bamboo Airways review and choose a suitable airline for you!

2. Additional options for how to travel in Vietnam

2.1. By cruise

Regarding how to travel in Vietnam by cruise, it can be a captivating and luxurious experience. Vietnam’s coastline is dotted with many picturesque destinations, and cruising allows you to explore these beautiful sites while enjoying the comfort of a well-appointed vessel. 

You should carefully consider the time to cruise in Vietnam. The weather can vary by region, so check the forecast and plan your cruise accordingly. Generally, the dry season from October to April is ideal for cruising.

2.2. By boat

Exploring some of Vietnam’s top destinations, such as Ha Long Bay, Hue, Hoi An, and the Mekong Delta, can be most enriching when you take a leisurely boat ride along serene waterways. These boat tours, such as Hoi An boat ride, provide a unique opportunity for travelers to gain valuable insights into the everyday life of the local communities residing by the rivers. In addition to enjoying the breathtaking scenery, visitors have a chance to visit nearby villages and participate in a variety of enjoyable activities, including swimming, kayaking, etc.

The boat is a convenient option to travel around cities with waterways (Source: Collected)

2.3. By taxi

Regarding how to travel in Vietnam by taxi, this is another convenient option for tourists in Vietnam. Taxis are readily available in most major locations in the country. The standard fares typically range from 12,000 to 15,000 VND per kilometer. It is advisable to choose only reputable taxi companies for your journeys. In some major Vietnamese cities like Hanoi, Saigon, and Da Nang, you can also use ride-hailing applications like Grab, Gojek, Be, and Xanh SM.

2.4. By bicycle

Exploring Vietnam on a bicycle is a fantastic way for tourists to discover the country’s diverse landscapes. Whether you prefer bustling city streets like those in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City or more remote routes in places like Hue and Hoi An, cycling offers a unique perspective.

You can look for Hanoi bike rental shops or those in any other city you visit. While navigating Vietnam’s chaotic traffic can be challenging at first, this activity allows you to enjoy beautiful landscapes, interact with friendly locals, and savor delicious regional dishes along the way. 

The best times for cycling in Vietnam are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is pleasant and accommodating for outdoor adventures.

The bicycle is perfect for those who want to enjoy a relaxing ride (Source: Collected)

2.5. How to tour Vietnam? – By cyclo

In more relaxed urban centers like Hue or the old quarter of Hanoi, you can indulge in a leisurely cyclo ride. Regarding how to travel in Vietnam by cyclo, they are essentially pedal-powered rickshaws. Cyclo used to be a basic means of transportation in Vietnam decades ago. When opting for a cyclo ride, it is crucial to negotiate the fare and your specific destination before commencing the journey.

To choose the most suitable means of transportation in Vietnam, consider the unique landscapes of each destination, such as Hanoi, Hoi An, Nha Trang, or Phu Quoc on your Vietnam travel list. In ancient towns like Hanoi and Hoi An, with their narrow alleys, renting a motorbike can be an excellent choice to explore every nook and cranny. On the other hand, in Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, you might want to consider your Vietnam trip ideas to choose how to get around efficiently. 

While in Vietnam, don’t forget to visit the entertainment complexes of VinWonders. They offer the most exotic experiences with a wide range of games, shows, and activities. Scattered across the country with VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park, VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium, VinWonders Nam Hoi An, VinWonders Nha Trang, and VinWonders Phu Quoc, VinWonders will surely bring you a journey full of fun and thrill.

You can enjoy various thrilling games at VinWonders

>>> Book tickets of VinWonders Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Nam Hoi An, VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium and VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park in advance to get the best deals!

As a traveler, it is essential to familiarize yourself with how to travel in Vietnam to organize a smooth journey. There are various means of transportation, each with its advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, you should consider carefully, taking these Vietnam travel tips into account to determine which one is most suitable for your needs.