Vietnam is one of the simpler nations to create an itinerary for since it is long, thin, and is bordered by two excellent cities that serve as natural ports of entry. Most tourists either start their journey in Hanoi in the north and make their way south to Ho Chi Minh City, or they travel the opposite direction, traversing the nation on a patchwork of buses or by taking the country’s fantastic railway line that follows the coastline. What is The finest method of transportation throughout Vietnam 2022?
The most daring ride motorbikes into the less traveled interior of the nation or take a boat to a remote, uninhabited island. Here is our guide to traveling in Vietnam, no matter the path you decide to take.
Trains run frequently between HCMC and Hanoi.
There is no better way to travel the nation for first-time tourists who want to check off some of Vietnam’s most well-known cities and villages than by rail. From HCMC to Hanoi, the main line winds its way down the coast, stopping practically everywhere you’d want it to.
The SE trains are the quickest and smartest, whereas the TN trains are slower and older. On railroads, there are four primary ticket classes. These are: hard seat, soft seat, hard sleeper, and soft sleeper, going up in price (and comfort). Additionally, these classes typically provide both air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned choices.
The upper berth is the least costly while the lowest berth is the most expensive in a hard sleeper, which includes three layers of beds (six beds per compartment). All bunks in soft sleepers cost the same and typically have two tiers (four beds per compartment). In rows of four with two chairs on either side of the aisle, soft seats are comfy chairs that recline. Hard seats are simply wooden benches; be prepared for these carriages to be crowded and heavily smoked in. Now, some trains have WiFi (though connection speeds, much like Vietnamese trains themselves, are not the fastest).
The costs are reasonable and change according on the class, route, and kind of train. Every day, several trains run on the HCMC – Hanoi route in both directions. When it comes to making reservations, tickets may be purchased online 60 to 90 days beforehand or at train stations a few days before departure. Most tourists utilize Bao Lau, which is straightforward and dependable, when making online reservations. Additionally, if you own a Vietnamese credit card, you may utilize the official Vietnam Railways website.
In addition to the primary HCMC-Hanoi route, three other rail spur lines connect Hanoi with the other regions of northern Vietnam: one travels east to the port city of Haiphong (for excursions around Halong Bay), another travels northeast to Lang Son and continues across the border to Nanning, China, and a third travels northwest to Lao Cai, which is about an hour’s drive from Sapa, the top trekking destination.
Bus travel is affordable and practical.
Buses are among the most affordable modes of transportation in Vietnam, making them popular with tourists on a tight budget. With a vast bus network that reaches all parts of the nation, they are also incredibly handy.
In every town, there is at least one bus terminal. These might appear chaotic, but many now have ticket desks with prominently stated official rates and departure times. To ensure that seats are available, try to purchase your tickets a day in advance. Alternatively, you may purchase tickets directly from bus operators online, such Sinh Tourist, or at the majority of hostels and hotels (sometimes with direct pick up).
Modern buses that connect large towns and cities typically include comfortable reclining seats and even cushioned flat beds for overnight excursions. On the other hand, the majority of them have TVs, so get ready for hours of confusing music videos, and some have the dreadful karaoke machines. It is advised to wear eye masks and ear plugs. Expect unpleasant local services that pick up and drop off as many passengers as possible in the rural areas.
Additionally, there are numerous signs promoting “Open Tour” or “Open Ticket” buses around the nation’s well-known backpacker hotspots. These services allow customers to board and depart at any significant city along the way and run between HCMC and Hanoi (as well as several other routes), mostly catering to Western budget visitors.
Due to the overwhelming amount of motorbikes, trucks, pedestrians, and stray animals jostling for space, bus travel in Vietnam is never very fast – plan on just 30mph (50km/h) on main routes, and possibly 43mph (70km/h) on the highway.
Motorcycles may easily be rented or purchased.
For many seasoned bikers, traveling the entire length of Vietnam on two wheels has been a longtime fantasy. It’s also a cheap and alluring option for reckless tourists to travel between Vietnam’s two biggest cities (often with far less biking expertise). Backpackers in HCMC and Hanoi sell motorbikes at their hostels, use them to get about, and then resell them. Bikes aren’t always in the best shape as a result.
Hiring is a more dependable approach to obtain a pair of wheels. Motorcycles are often rented on an as-needed basis. Scooters may be rented from almost any location, including cafés, hotels, and tourist companies. Some locations will request that you retain your passport until you return the bike/scooter. Sign a contract that clearly states what you are employing, how much it costs, the scope of remuneration, and so on. Many local drivers are prepared to serve as chauffeur and guide for roughly $30 per day.
Unfortunately, many people in Vietnam are unable to obtain a legitimate motorcycle license. The laws and bureaucracy involved are, to put it mildly, mind-boggling. Foreigners having an International Driving Permit (IDP) are able to ride motorcycles in Vietnam; however, this only applies to nations that have signed the 1968 Convention on IDPs. This includes the majority of EU countries, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland, but not the United States, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand.
There are plenty of cars for hire with drivers/guides.
Cars are an alternative mode of private transportation. Renting a car without a driver is nearly impossible in Vietnam, which is a godsend considering the traffic, but automobiles with drivers are popular and available. Even for low-budget tourists, renting a vehicle with a driver-guide is a viable choice if there are enough people to split the expense.
There are several travel businesses in Hanoi, HCMC, and the major tourist areas that rent automobiles with drivers for sightseeing tours. A 4WD vehicle is required for the rugged roads in northern Vietnam.
If you go in a tourist vehicle with a driver, the car rental provider will arrange for insurance. If you’re renting a bike, keep in mind that most travel insurance policies will not cover you in the case of an accident if you don’t have a valid motorcycle driving license. Many tourists wing it, but the dangers are obvious. For budget travelers, the expense of treating catastrophic injuries can be bankrupting. Helmets must be worn at all times when riding a motorcycle.
There are several domestic flying options.
Domestic flights might be a useful option to go from point A to point B in Vietnam if you’re short on time. The country has excellent internal air connectivity, with new routes being added on a regular basis at relatively reasonable costs (if you book early). Airlines accept international credit and debit cards for reservations. It should be noted, however, that cancellations are extremely usual.
It’s best not to rely on a flight from a tiny regional airport to connect to an international aircraft the same day – go a day ahead if possible. Vietnam Airlines has the lowest likelihood of flight cancellations. Bamboo Airways, Jetstar, and Vietnam Airlines are among the local airlines of Vietnam.
While flights are unquestionably handy, they offer less of an opportunity to experience the sweeping beauty of this magnificent nation up close. They are also significantly more damaging to the environment.
Cycling is great away from major roadways.
Bicycles are an excellent mode of transportation in Vietnam, especially after you get off the main highways. Westerners riding bicycles are frequently hailed enthusiastically by locals who don’t see many outsiders pedaling about.
Cycling across long distances is common in Vietnam. The majority of the nation is flat or very slightly hilly, and the major highways are in good condition. However, safety is a major worry. Bicycles may be transported across the nation on top of buses (typically for $1 to $2 for a short trip) or even in railway luggage compartments if you run out of steam.
Some locations are best seen on day journeys by boat.
The Mekong and its tributaries are by far the most significant of Vietnam’s rivers that are at least somewhat navigable. Day cruises by boat on rivers in Hoi An, Nha Trang, Danang, Hue, Tam Coc, and even HCMC are feasible.
There are also magnificent maritime voyages. All tourists to northern Vietnam should take a cruise across Halong Bay’s islands. The Cham Islands (accessible from Hoi An) are a popular day trip in northern Vietnam, while journeys to the islands near Nha Trang and surrounding Phu Quoc are advised in the south. The Con Dao Islands can also be reached by boat.
In Vietnam, public transportation is scarce.
Despite the fact that many people are injured as a result of war injuries, Vietnam is not the easiest country for disabled tourists. Tactical issues include chaotic traffic and sidewalks that are frequently obstructed by parked motorcycles and food booths.
Having said that, an accessible vacation to Vietnam is achievable with some proper planning. Find a reputable business to handle your travel arrangements, and don’t be hesitant to double-check with hotels and restaurants.
Lifts are available in several low-cost, mid-range, and high-end hotels. Bathroom entrances may be quite tight; if your wheelchair is wider than 60cm, you may struggle to go inside.
Trains are not designed for wheelchair users, however open tour buses offer an option. If you can afford to rent a private automobile with a driver, you can go practically everywhere. Anything is feasible as long as you are open to how you get in and out of a boat or up some steps, since the Vietnamese are always prepared to assist.
The dangers for blind passengers in Vietnam are significant, with vehicles approaching from all sides. Simply crossing the street in places like Hanoi and HCMC is difficult for everyone, so you’ll surely need a sighted partner!
