With the rapid development of Vietnam’s infrastructure, the country’s internal transport system is improving at a fast pace, and becoming more convenient and affordable. Railway lines run from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, connecting several cities en route, before passing into China. Though reasonably comfortable, trains are probably the slowest mode of transport. Long-distance buses are faster, but most can be uncomfortable after a few hours, although the relatively new and expensive Express buses are comparatively luxurious. Most popular is the Open Tour bus system, which links major centers. For quick travel between major cities, the airline system is great, while ferries and hydrofoils connect many ports. Travelers can also hire a motorbike or a car and driver.

Domestic Airlines

The only two domestic airlines operating in the country are Vietnam Airlines and Pacific Airlines – both are owned by the state. Vietnam Airlines is the major carrier, servicing the entire nation, while Pacific Airlines serves just some main cities: Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Danang, Hai Phong, Nha Trang, Buon Me Thuot, Vinh, Da Lat. In keeping with the country’s general trend of progress, Vietnam Airlines has a modern commercial fleet, which has replaced an aging fleet of Russian and Chinese Aircraft.

Plane Tickets, Fares, and Reservations

Tickets can be purchased at the airlines booking offices in major cities or at the reservation counter at the airport. An English-speaking attendant is usually on duty. Any of the many travel agents throughout Vietnam can also arrange air travel, and their prices are usually no more than what you would pay at the airline office. You can also book tickets at the travel desk of some of the better hotels, or even through some diving operators and select souvenir shops.

Domestic fares rarely exceed US$ 100. A departure tax of about US$ 2 is included in the ticket’s purchase price. It is a good idea to make advance reservations if planning to travel during the peak season, from December to February.

Railroad Network

The railroad network services almost the entire length of the country. It mainly follows the coast from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi, with stops at several big cities along the way. From Hanoi, a few lines connect to HalongBay, Sapa, and China. However, it is otherwise not possible to reach the interior by rail. The running times vary, but the fastest transit between Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi is about 33 hours. Trains commonly run late but, curiously, can also sometimes arrive early. Even-numbered trains run from north to south, while odd-numbered trains run in the opposite direction. Although trains connect Hanoi to Ho ChiMinhCity are called Reunification Expresses, no train is actually named so. 

Trains

Most passenger trains in Vietnam are fairly affordable, new, clean, and reasonably comfortable, if not really luxurious. All the carriages are air conditioned. Four classes of tickets are on offer here: Hard Seat, which is basically a wooden bench; Soft Seat, a cushioned recliner in a carriage with a TV; Hard Sleeper, which is an open compartment with six bunks; and Soft Sleeper, a private compartment with four bunks and a lockable door. The Soft Sleeper also has the benefit of meals delivered to the compartment, a service included in the ticket’s cost itself. Long-distance trains have a dining car, and vendors bearing a variety of drinks and snacks roam the trains.

Train Tickets, Fares and Reservations

Tickets can be purchased at the stations, as well as through travel agents and good hotels. Note that some travel agents are limited to single destination tickets, and can not take you to certain points. Other agents may have more ticket options. Check the stations, the Vietnam Railways’ website, and with travel agents for up-to-date schedules. Train fares do not exceed US$ 70 with the exception of the Victoria Service from Hanoi to Sapa. Be sure to make advance bookings if traveling during popular Vietnam holidays. 

Buses

The advent of new and clean Express buses has made bus travel the preferred means of getting around for visitors traveling between major cities. The vehicles are more expensive than their non-Express counterparts and local mini-buses, but are faster, safer, and more comfortable. Their chief disadvantage, however, is the karaoke machine most of them carry. In addition to the regularly schedule buses, another viable option is the chartered minibus. Most travel agents and hotels can arrange one to carry up to 16 passengers for out-of-town trips.

The Open Tour bus or coach travels between major destinations and is a popular and quick method of transportation for tourists. Many tourist cafe’s such as the Sinh Cafe’ run these services. Tickets are one-way, cheap and flexible, and allow stop-off as well. 

Bus Tickets and Fares

Bus fares are quite low, with the longest routes not charging more than US$ 25. Tickets can be bought at the bus station on the day of travel or before. In contrast, the ticketing and scheduling system can be maddeningly complex. A single station can sell tickets only to certain destinations, and connecting routes complicate the matter even more. It is usually best to make arrangements via an agent or hotel. 

Renting a Car or Motorbike

If you choose to rent a car, it is better to hire a driver along with it. It is not advisable for foreign visitors to self-drive hired cars. A car with a driver costs about US$ 50 per day, though the price usually varies with the distance you expect to cover and the amount of fuel needed. The driver takes care of his own meals and lodgings on trips lasting more than a day.

Just about anyone can rent a motorbike. Legally, a license is required but is rarely asked to be shown. If you want to get around by motorbike, it is best to simply hire a motor-cycle taxi, locally called the XE OM or a HON DA OM. Depending on the distance you expect to travel, it should cost around US$ 10-15 per day. 

Boats and Ferries