Introduction to the best ways to travel around Vietnam

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Vietnam has many glam landscapes that will entice you immediately at first glance. If you want to discover the entire charm of this nation, check out the best ways to travel around Vietnam now!

Travel by plane

For those with limited time, traveling around Vietnam via plane is the quickest and most cost-effective way. Vietnam is well served by its local airports, with almost daily flights in the main urban areas linking to tourist hot spots.

One of the benefits of traveling by plane in Vietnam is that it is relatively affordable. You can book domestic flights for less than a hundred dollars. Another benefit is that flights are generally reliable and on time.

Here are some tips for traveling around Vietnam by plane:

  • Book your flights in advance, especially if you are traveling during peak season.
  • Arrive at the airport at least two hours before your flight departs.
  • Be aware of the baggage restrictions for your airline.
  • If you are connecting to an international flight, allow plenty of time for your layover.

Enjoy your tour on a plane (Source: Du lịch hàng không)

Enjoy your trip by boat

Sailing through Vietnam is special and can hardly be forgotten. Vietnam is endowed with an elaborate coastline as well as numerous rivers and canals. Therefore, many boat trips and cruises are affordable for everyone.

Here are the top 3 popular boat tours that will tickle your fancy:

  • Ha Long Bay: Cruise past towering limestone karsts and emerald waters, explore hidden caves and lagoons, and visit traditional fishing villages.
  • Mekong Delta: Discover a maze of canals, floating markets, and lush orchards, sample local cuisine, and learn about the region’s unique way of life.
  • Phu Quoc Island: Sail around pristine beaches, explore coral reefs, and visit secluded coves.

Whether you’re looking for a short day trip or a long trip, boat travel in Vietnam is a great way to immerse yourself in the country’s culture and natural wonders. So set sail and discover the beauty of Vietnam from the water!

Have an unprecedented experience with a boat trip (Source: Halong cruise)

Tour around Vietnam with a bicycle

Hop on your bike and embark on a scenic and adventurous journey through Vietnam! With its diverse landscapes, friendly people, and delicious food, Vietnam is a perfect destination for a cycling tour.

From the stunning rice paddies of the north to the lush jungles of the central highlands and the pristine beaches of the south, Vietnam has something to offer cyclists of all levels. Whether looking for a leisurely ride through picturesque villages or a challenging climb through mountain passes, Vietnam still has the perfect cycling route for you.

Have a wonderful sightseeing while cycling your bicycle (Source: Vietluxtour)

Travel by bus

Buses are a good way to enjoy the beautiful sceneries and varied cultural patterns on shoestring budgets in Vietnam. Through its wide system of bus networks linking all the major cities and towns, Vietnam is easily navigable by bus.

On a journey through Vietnam by bus, one can look at the noisy life of Hanoi, the ancient temples of Hoi An, and the beaches of Nha Trang in all their purity. Besides this, buses are relatively cheaper, with fares ranging just a few dollars per hour.

Of course, bus travel in Vietnam has its challenges. The buses can be crowded and uncomfortable, and the journey can be long and tiring. But if you are traveling on a budget, a bus trip will be perfect for experiencing Vietnam’s unique culture and scenery.

Enjoy your trip while sitting in a bus (Source: Vietnam Net)

An exciting tour with a bike 

This can be at the top of the best ways to travel around Vietnam. With its winding roads, scenic countryside, and friendly people, Vietnam is a biker’s paradise.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to meet friendly locals, sample delicious local cuisine, and experience the unique culture of Vietnam. You’ll also enjoy some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world, from towering limestone karsts to lush rice paddies to pristine beaches.

Here are a few tips for making the most of your motorbike journey in Vietnam:

  • Make sure you have a valid driver’s license.
  • Be aware of the traffic conditions and ride defensively.
  • Wear a helmet at all times.
  • Don’t forget to bring a map, please!

By private car

If you want to chill with the picturesque landscapes safely, a private car will be a perfect choice for you. With its well-developed road network and relatively affordable car rental rates, Vietnam can be easily explored by car.

Imagine driving through the towering limestone karsts of Ha Long Bay, or winding your way through the rice paddies of the Mekong Delta. You can stop anytime to explore a village, sample local cuisine, or simply enjoy the scenery.

Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a road trip off the beaten path. Explore hidden gems like Sapa, Mai Chau, or Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. With a private car, you can go wherever your heart desires.

Have a car and you can go anywhere (Source: Kenh14)

Travel by train

Riding the trains is a wonderful way to see the countryside and cities of Vietnam. The scenery out the window is gorgeous – bright green rice fields, rivers, and mountains. With a wide network connecting most major cities and towns, you can go anywhere by train.

Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended, especially for long-distance routes. You can buy tickets at the train stations or online. There are different classes, like soft sleepers with comfy bunks or hard seats if you’re on a budget.

When boarding, don’t forget to hold onto your ticket. The conductor will come to check it. There’s usually a dining car so you can get snacks and drinks. It’s fun to chat with locals on the train who are very friendly.

Try to get a window seat so you can admire the stunning views throughout the route. Dress comfortably as some cars aren’t air-conditioned. Also, remember to keep valuables on you and lock your luggage to avoid theft.

An inexpensive way to travel to anywhere you like (Source: Bach Hoa XANH)

Final thoughts

Here are the best ways to travel around Vietnam that you must try. Each way will give you different experiences and feelings you will always remember. Therefore, try to make your trip in as many ways as possible.  

Reviewed by

Diep Van

Phone: +84901166884

Email: diep.van@ftripvietnam.com

Diep Van

Founder & Photography Guide

Specialties: Culture, landscape, portrait, hiking, active and adventurous tour

Besides my unlimited passion for traveling, a professional tour guide for over a decade, I have been taking photographs since sitting at Hanoi of the University of Culture in the early 2000s. Photography started as a hobby but it was seriously taken due to my work relations and my significant passion for the beauty of our world, especially in Southeast Asian parts such as Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar.

Within a few years of taking photographs, my works began to be recognized by many reliable international publications such as AFAR Travel, The Times, and The Daily Telegraph newspaper. In addition, I continuously add to my growing profile by winning numerous major awards: 3rd Position of The Independent Photographer 2018, 1st Position of Amateur Photographer of the year 2018, Grand Prize Winner of the AFAR Travel Photography 2019, and a Gold Award of San Francisco Bay International Photography 2020.

I photograph a wide variety of subjects, from travel to landscapes to street scenes. I enjoy documenting the East’s rich cultural heritage and its land soaked in glorious sunrise or sunset light in remote and secluded spots. And, I am very happy to share my knowledge and experience with you. You can visit Luminousvietnamtour to explore tour!


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