Vietnam, a dynamic Southeast Asian nation known for its rich history, stunning landscapes, and bustling cities, is becoming an increasingly important hub for regional and international travel. For travelers arriving in Vietnam, whether for business, leisure, or transit – onward connectivity plays a crucial role in shaping the overall travel experience. With growing infrastructure and a range of transportation options including domestic flights and reliable road links, moving within the country is more seamless than ever.
Vietnam’s strategic location offers convenient access to key destinations across Asia, enhancing its appeal as a well-connected gateway in the region. With a long north-to-south stretch of over 1,600 kilometers, air travel is the fastest and the most convenient way to explore Vietnam’s diverse regions. The country boasts a well-connected network of domestic airports, with major hubs in Hanoi (Noi Bai International Airport) in the north, Ho Chi Minh City (Tan Son Nhat International Airport) in the south, and Da Nang in the central region.
For travelers from India, with competitive pricing and high frequency, in addition to its existing network from Delhi & Mumbai in India, Vietnam Airlines is launching 2 new direct routes from Bengaluru and Hyderabad, starting May 2025, making it easier than ever for Indian visitors esp from the South to explore these beautiful destinations in Vietnam with comfort and flexibility.
Further, Vietnam Airlines offers seamless connections to entire South East Asia, Australia and Far East for the travelers looking to travel beyond Vietnam. Vietnam Airlines’ Transit Tour Policy has received overwhelming response where the travelers explore the beautiful, scenic Vietnam before embarking on their onward journey.
For those who prefer a slower pace and scenic routes, Vietnam’s Reunification Express is a classic option. Stretching from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, the railway offers panoramic views of the countryside, coastlines, and small towns. While the full journey takes over 30 hours, many travelers opt for shorter scenic legs such as Hanoi to Hue or Da Nang which is ideal for exploring Central Vietnam’s cultural hubs or Da Nang to Nha Trang, which offers stunning views of beaches and coastal cliffs. Vietnam’s trains are safe, affordable, and available in soft-sleeper, hard-sleeper, and air-conditioned seating classes, perfect for those who love the journey as much as the destination.For budget-conscious travelers, Vietnam’s bus network is extensive and inexpensive. From luxury sleeper buses to local minibuses, you can reach even the remotest towns. Long-distance buses connect all major cities, while short-distance minivans provide access to places like Mai Chau, Ha Giang, and the Mekong Delta. Bus services have greatly improved in recent years, with many offering Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and reclining seats. Booking tickets online or through local travel agents is easy and convenient.
And then there’s the scooter (popularly referred to as “xe máy”), Vietnam’s most iconic mode of transport. Renting one gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, especially in places like Hoi An, Da Lat, or the northern mountain loops. The Hai Van Pass and Ha Giang Loop are must-rides if you’re up for a bit of adventure and incredible views. Just be sure to ride safely with a helmet and other protection measures and, where necessary, have an international driving permit.
Within cities, getting around is super convenient and effortless. Apps like Grab (Vietnam’s version of Uber), VIN Taxi app etc. are widely used and affordable, whether you prefer a car or a motorbike ride. Taxis are easy to find too, and for short local trips, you can even hop on a traditional cyclo for a more laid-back, nostalgic experience. In bigger cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, public transport is improving rapidly, with modern buses and metro lines making commuting smoother for locals and tourists alike.
For beach lovers, ferry services have you covered. High-speed boats connect the mainland to tropical getaways like Phu Quoc, Cat Ba, and Con Dao, adding to the diversity of transport options available.
So whether you’re sipping egg coffee in a Hanoi café, wandering through Hoi An’s lantern-lit alleys, or lazing on a beach in Phu Quoc, getting there is easier than ever and every mile adds to the memory. With improved onward connectivity, domestic travel options, and Vietnam Airlines’ expanding network to India, it caters to every kind of traveler, making Vietnam not just a destination, but a journey to remember.
