Getting Around
Trains, buses, flights, motorbikes, and ride-hailing.
85 articlesPhoto by Tuan Vy on Pexels
All our Getting Around stories
Newest stories first
Getting Around
Vietnam trains: a map-led guide to the North-South line, station distances and city transfers
This map-led guide to Vietnam trains follows the 1,726 km North-South line from Hanoi to Saigon, stop by stop. It lists rail distances, station-to-city transfer times, fares, journey times and the booking window, so you can pick the right station, berth and buffer for the 2026 timetable.
by Lê Minh Đức
4 min readAcross Vietnam
Vietnam Trains in Storm Season: Reunification Express SE4 Hanoi to Da Nang, 26-27 September 2026
A dated field report on riding SE4 of the Reunification Express from Hanoi to Da Nang on 26 and 27 September 2026, during central Vietnam's rainy season. It covers the VND 1.45m soft sleeper fare, booking on dsvn.vn against 12Go, Baolau and Vexere, cabin conditions, the four hours lost near Hue, and what I would change.
Vietnam Trains vs Sleeper Bus: Hanoi to Da Nang Overnight in 2026
This comparison sets the Reunification Express sleeper against a modern sleeper bus on the Hanoi to Da Nang overnight route in 2026. It covers 2026 fares, travel times, booking channels, luggage limits, toilets, arrival logistics and who each option suits, using published figures from Vietnam Railways, Baolau, 12Go and Vexere.
Vietnam trains and the northern loop: 9 days Hanoi, Sapa, Ha Giang, Cat Ba
This 9-day northern Vietnam loop uses Vietnam trains for the Hanoi to Lao Cai overnight leg, then buses and a ferry to link Sapa, Ha Giang, and Cat Ba without backtracking. It gives 2026 fares, booking channels, pacing, a daily itinerary, and a US$450 to 750 budget.
Vietnam trains in 2026: How far ahead sleepers sell out on five routes
This original-data study measures 2026 seat availability on five Vietnam train routes: Hanoi-Da Nang, Hanoi-Hue, Hanoi-Lao Cai, HCMC-Nha Trang, and Da Nang-HCMC. It shows fares, travel times, booking channels, and how far ahead sleepers and soft seats sell out so international visitors can book at the right time.
Vietnam trains compared: VNR, Livitrans, Violette, Golden Train, La Reine and The Vietage in 2026
This operator comparison covers Vietnam trains sleeper and luxury carriages in 2026: Vietnam Railways (VNR), Livitrans Express, Violette Express, Golden Train (Hoa Sen), La Reine, and The Vietage. It compares 2026 fares, cabin sizes, inclusions, safety, and reviews, then gives a verdict for solo travelers, couples, families, and luxury riders.
Navigating Vietnam: A Guide to Ride-Hailing Apps for International Visitors
Explore Vietnam with ease using popular ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek. This guide offers essential tips on app setup, payment methods, and local etiquette to ensure a seamless transportation experience.
Navigating Vietnam's Public Transportation: A Visitor's Guide
Vietnam's public transportation system offers an efficient and affordable way to explore the country. From buses to trains and ride-hailing services, this guide provides essential tips for international travelers.
Vietnam’s Most Scenic Train Journeys: Where to Ride for the Best Views
Vietnam’s railway network isn’t just a way to get from city to city—it’s a window onto the country’s landscapes. This guide highlights the most scenic train routes in Vietnam, with practical advice on when to ride, what to expect, and how to plan your journey for the best views.
Vietnam by Train: Essential Routes, Classes, and Booking Tips for 2026
Vietnam’s railway network spans the country from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, offering a scenic and comfortable way to experience local life. This guide covers practical details for international travelers considering rail journeys, including ticket booking, routes, and tips for a smooth trip.
Getting Around Vietnam’s Mekong Delta by Local Ferries: A Practical Guide
Local ferries are a practical and authentic way to explore the Mekong Delta, connecting towns and islands where bridges are limited. This guide covers key routes, ticketing, schedules, and tips for international travelers navigating the region’s waterways.
Cat Ba Island Transport Guide 2026: Ferry, Bus, and Motorbike Options
This article explains how to reach Cat Ba Island from Hanoi and Haiphong in 2026, with updated bus, ferry, and speedboat schedules, fares, and booking tips. It covers local transport options on the island, including motorbike rentals, electric shuttles, and taxis, making it practical for international visitors planning their trip.
Hanoi to Sapa in 2026: Night Train vs Sleeper Bus vs Private Car
Compare every way to get from Hanoi to Sapa in 2026: Vietnam Railways night trains to Lao Cai plus the shuttle, sleeper buses and limousine vans direct to Sapa, and private cars. It lists fares, departure windows, real durations, booking channels, Lao Cai transfers and Tet dates, so you can reserve the right seat.