Uncovering the Best Way to Travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

If you’re an intrepid traveler looking to explore both of Vietnam’s big cities, a journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is an adventure you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re following your stomach to explore the street food in Hanoi or chasing the lively pulse of Saigon (Ho Chi Minh City), understanding the distance and best ways to travel between these two iconic cities can help your trip run smoothly.

We recently returned from our latest adventure in Vietnam and I can’t stop talking about it. It’s an amazing country to visit with so much culture, history, and breathtaking landscapes. We focused most of our stay in northern Vietnam with Hanoi as our home base, but adding Ho Chi Minh City to your trip can be super easy. For more on our trip check out my itinerary for spending 3 days in Hanoi.

Ready to discover how to traverse roughly 1,150 kilometers between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City? Let’s dive into this travel guide on the best transportation options for making the most out of your journey.

How far is Hanoi from Ho Chi Minh City?

Vietnam is a long and narrow country. The distance from Hanoi to Saigon is 1,150 kilometers. It’s a similar distance between Philadelphia, PA and Atlanta, GA (i.e., the equivalent of covering multiple states in the United States).

Quick note: As a result of north/south political tensions over the years, people who live in southern Vietnam and in Ho Chi Minh City still generally tend to refer to it by its old name: Saigon. In northern Vietnam, we did not hear anyone refer to it as Saigon. It was always Ho Chi Minh City. If you’re going to both cities, that is important to keep in mind.

Flying from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

Traveling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by air is the fastest and most convenient way to cover the distance between these two cities. The flight takes roughly 2 hours. If you’re short on time or just eager to get to the bustling streets of Saigon, flying is your best bet.

Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport (HAN) and Ho Chi Minh City’s Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) are well-connected with multiple daily flights. Major airlines like Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways operate these routes. Prices can vary, so keep an eye out for deals and promotions. It’s not uncommon to find some great last-minute bargains if you’re flexible with your travel dates.

Airfare from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City prices will range from $50-$100+ USD for a one-way ticket depending on the time of year that you’re traveling and how far in advance you book. If you’ve got some time, I’d set up a Google Flight alert to see if prices move much over the span of a couple of weeks before booking.

Arriving in Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll land at Tan Son Nhat International Airport. This bustling airport is the busiest in Vietnam, and it shows. Be prepared for a bit of a crowd and some waiting, especially during peak travel times. Customs and baggage claim are usually efficient, but it’s a good idea to keep an eye on your belongings.

Once you’re through, getting into the city is a breeze. Taxis and ride-hailing services like Grab are readily available at the airport. The ride to downtown Saigon typically takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic. If you’re heading to the central district, make sure to have some cash on hand for the ride, though many taxis also accept cards.

Train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

Traveling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by train is an experience that’s as scenic as it is adventurous. This journey is going to take a bit longer than flying—and by a bit, I mean a total of 30 to 35 hours, depending on the train and route. But if you’ve got days to spend on the road, this is a really scenic option.

There are several classes available, ranging from soft seats to luxury sleeper cabins. The soft seats are a budget-friendly option and are relatively comfortable for daytime travel. For overnight trips, a sleeper cabin is your best bet. The trains offer several types of sleeper arrangements: hard beds, soft beds, and deluxe options with more privacy and comfort. If you’re looking for a bit of luxury on a budget, opt for the soft sleeper cabins—they strike a nice balance between comfort and cost.

You can purchase tickets online through various travel sites or directly at the train station. The two main operators on this route are Vietnam Railways and several private companies like the more budget Laman Express and the more luxurious Sapaly Express. Tickets for a bunk in a cabin on Vietnam Railways range from $40-75 USD. Non-sleeper cabin tickets will go as low as $15 USD. Booking in advance is a good idea if you’re trying to snag a sleeper cabin.

The train from Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi (and vice versa) offers a unique way to see Vietnam’s countryside. You’ll pass through rice fields, mountains, and small villages. The train has basic amenities. You’ll get food and drinks, but they’re not gourmet, so packing snacks is really a must.

When you arrive in Ho Chi Minh City at the Saigon Railway Station, you’ll find yourself right in the heart of the city. From there, taxis and ride-hailing apps can quickly whisk you to your final destination.

Bus from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

Traveling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City by bus is a budget-friendly way to make the journey, but it requires a bit of patience. The trip usually takes between 20 to 25 hours (shorter than the train as it’s more direct). This is the best option if you’ve already spent 14 days in Northern Vietnam and need to stretch your cash out.

There are several bus companies offering this route, such as Phuong Trang (FUTA Bus Lines), Hoang Long, and Mai Linh Express. You can book tickets online, at bus stations, or through travel agencies. Prices are going to be cheap. Like $7 USD cheap. So if you’re rich on time and nothing else, this is going to be your best bet.

When it comes to comfort, buses vary. Most long-distance buses offer reclining seats, air conditioning, and maybe a snack or two. For a more comfortable experience, look for VIP or sleeper buses. These usually have wider seats that recline into beds, giving you a chance to catch some Z’s along the way. Caveat: you’re still on a bus for a very long time, so comfortable is very relative. 

The journey itself can be a mixed bag. The biggest reason the bus would be a no for me is that most of them do not have restrooms on board and I have the world’s smallest bladder. Buses have scheduled stops for meals and rest breaks, but for me that isn’t enough.

Deciding between Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City

If you only have enough time in Vietnam to focus on one of these cities, you’ll have to make some tough choices. Both are stunning and safe for solo female travelers but both offer different vibes.

Hanoi is the city that wraps you in its rich history and charming streets. We absolutely adored strolling through ancient temples, sipping Vietnamese coffee in quaint cafes, and devouring Hanoi street food. Hanoi is located conveniently to take day trips to stunning areas like Ninh Binh and Halong Bay.

On the other hand, Ho Chi Minh City is the more energetic of the two cities. It’s a non-stop party with buzzing streets, dazzling skyscrapers, and a nightlife that goes on until the sun comes up. If you’re craving modernity with a side of excitement and don’t mind a bit of hustle, this is your city. It’s got all the glitz and glamor with delicious food to match.

So, which one to choose? If you’re into deep cultural dives and serene strolls, Hanoi’s your go-to. But if you’re looking to dance till dawn and dive into the fast lane, Ho Chi Minh City will be your playground. Either way, you’re in for a really big treat.

Traveling from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City offers an exciting glimpse into Vietnam’s diverse cultural landscape. Whether you choose to fly for speed, take the train for a scenic route, or embark on a bus journey for a budget-friendly option, each mode of transport provides its own unique experience and its own unique drawbacks.

Regardless of the option you pick, I’m pretty sure you’ll love Vietnam just as much as I did. So pack your bags, set your itinerary, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure across this beautiful country. Your journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City promises to be as exhilarating and enriching as the cities themselves!

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