Do you know how to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang? Travelers often take flights for speed, but other options like trains and buses let you experience the changing landscapes of Vietnam along the way.
Overview Of Ho Chi Minh To Da Nang
The route from Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) to Da Nang connects Vietnam’s much-storied southern hub and, along with its beaches & lively waterfront, the bustling central coast and its proximity to several UNESCO-recognized World Heritage towns, namely Hoi An and Hue.
Many travelers will combine a visit to both cities during a single trip, taking in the contrast between the vibrant commercial capital of the south and the pleasant coastal atmosphere of the central Vietnam coast. Depending on travel preferences, including budget and style, it is possible to take direct flights, via train, or cap off a bus journey to either city and inland towns to the heartland of Vietnam.
How Far Is It From Ho Chi Minh To Da Nang?
The distance between Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang is quite long, being at least 858 km by car. It takes about 33 hours to travel via National Highways 14 and 1A, or about 951 km in case one takes the coastal route along the South Central provinces. Normally, two main routes are chosen by many travelers when it comes to taking cars or motorbikes in traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang.
Since traveling can be very tiring and consumes much time, good preparation must be carried out before traveling, both physically and mentally, as well as with a well-prepared vehicle for the road trip.
How To Get From Ho Chi Minh To Da Nang?
Travelling from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang has many options, depending on your budget and schedule. You can fly, take the train, or go by bus or motorbike, depending on how you want to experience the beautiful landscapes of Vietnam.
By Flight
The most efficient way to get from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang is to fly. There are daily flights from Vietnam Airlines, Pacific Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways that will give you plenty of flexibility in terms of price and travel habits. The flight will take about 1 hour and 20 minutes from Tan Son Nhat Airport to Da Nang International Airport, although the time may vary slightly based on the specific airline and weather.
The best time to travel to Da Nang by air is during the dry season, from April to August, which is also the best time to sightsee in the city. Unfortunately, because this is peak season, it can be quite pricey, and travel can be competitive, with tickets sold out quickly, so you should plan on booking a flight with Seni World 1-2 months in advance for the best chance of getting a good deal.
Duration: 1 hour 20 minutes
Cost: 1,000,000 – 2,500,000 VND (depending on season and airline)
Best for: Time-saving, families, and those who want convenience
By Train
Many travelers find the train journey from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang safe, reliable, highly ranked, and comfortable for leisure or business travel. Unlike bus or car transport, the train is smooth and doesn’t make you nauseous, allowing you to enjoy the trip. This trip offers amazing scenery across the untamed mountains, green fields, and beautiful, quaint coastal views of Vietnam.
The train allows you to carry more luggage with ease because of the easily accessible onboard storage areas. If you would like the best seats and the best fares, it’s always a good idea to buy early tickets before the holidays or peak time.
Duration: From 16 to 19 hours
Cost:
- Soft seat (A/C): 500,000 – 800,000 VND
- Hard sleeper: 600,000 – 900,000 VND
- Soft sleeper: 700,000 – 1,200,000 VND
Best for: Budget travelers, slow travel fans, and those who enjoy landscapes along the way
By Motorbike
A motorbike trip from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang is an exciting trip that covers almost 900 kilometers and should take approximately 18-19 hours of riding time. The trip leaves from downtown Ho Chi Minh City, bypassing Saigon Bridge, as well as Hanoi Highway and Vo Nguyen Giap Street, with the road ultimately veering onto National Highway 1. You will ride through provinces such as Dong Nai, Binh Thuan, Ninh Thuan, Khanh Hoa, Quang Ngai, and Quang Nam.
In addition to the distance, you will see very different landscapes from the coastal areas to the mountain passes, which makes this trip both scenic and difficult. This trip requires some experience as a rider; prepare rest stops, prepare your bike accordingly for the journey, and prepare yourself physically for being on the motorbike for long periods.
Duration: 18 – 20 hours
Cost: From 200,000 – 400,000 VND/day and flexible fuel costs.
Best for: Adventurous travelers who don’t mind overnight road travel
By Private Car
Driving a private car from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang is an 850 km drive, the most convenient option for those wanting comfort and flexibility. After leaving downtown Ho Chi Minh City, you will exit from downtown onto the Thu Thiem Bridge and continue onto the Ho Chi Minh City – Long Thanh – Dau Giay Expressway. After driving 55 km on the expressway, exit onto National Highway 1, and after about 7 km, you will arrive at Long Khanh, Dong Nai.
From there, it’s simply following the same route as the motorbikes, passing through some of the most beautiful coastal provinces, before arriving in Da Nang. When traveling in a private car, you can stop without restrictions, lie back and enjoy the scenery along your route, and you can choose how fast/slow you travel.
Duration: 15 – 20 hours (best done in stages)
Cost: From 10,000,000 VND (multi-day with stops)
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who don’t worry about a long journey.
By Coach
Riding a coach from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang is a common option for backpackers and budget tourists. It is among the cheapest ways to travel the long distance of around 850-950 km. A number of reputable bus companies offer daily coach rides.
Coaches are cost-effective, with plenty of options in sleeper and reclining seats if you’re interested in comfort. Most buses offer modern air-conditioning, reclining seats, and Wi-Fi. You can even look out at the spectacular coastal scenery along National Highway 1A, and overnight buses can save you money on a hotel room.
The only real downside is the length of the trip, roughly anywhere between 18 and 20 hours, and, in the end, it can get tiring. The ride can be pretty uncomfortable on the ‘nice’ winding sections of the poorly paved roads, detecting that a few of your fellow riders may have motion sickness. Schedules can easily fall behind depending on road traffic when the trip has more potential during holidays.
Duration: 18 – 20 hours
Cost: 350,000-700,000 VND/ pax/one way
Best for: Budget-conscious travelers who don’t worry about a long journey.
Tips For Traveling From Ho Chi Minh To Da Nang
Taking the journey from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang can be a thrilling experience, whether you take a plane, train, or road trip. Here are some helpful tips to make the journey as enjoyable as possible and fully experience your travels.
- Flights book up quickly during the Tet holiday and summer, so plan ahead and purchase tickets in advance if you want to get a better price.
- Trains are popular with backpackers flying to travel that route from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang. For added comfort, purchase tickets for a soft sleeper cabin, as this is a long route.
- If you are traveling by bus or train, cash is preferred for food or small purchases. It is recommended to pay with cash in VND.
- If you plan to rent a motorbike, we would suggest splitting this journey over 3-5 days, where you stop at coastal towns for safety and to rest.
- Since the central region of Vietnam is typically hotter and more humid than the south, make sure to bring lightweight clothing and sunscreen.
- Be sure to check the weather in advance of travel, storms and flooding may affect travel plans during the rainy season (September-November).
- You will benefit greatly from apps that provide information offline. Download a map and translation app to help with navigation while traveling.
Recommended Stops Along the Way
Destined to travel from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang by motorbike, car, or even train? Make sure to get off the main road and investigate the small towns and seaside treasures along the way. Taking a break from your long-distance journey, you can add a memory to your journey with these great stops.
Phan Thiet
Phan Thiet is well known for its golden beaches and red dune hills, making it a great first stop on your venture north. Stay a while on Muine beach relaxing, eating a meal at a local seafood restaurant, and take a scenic couple of miles at the Fairy Stream. Be sure to watch the kitesurfers, as Muine is known for being the kitesurfing capital of Vietnam.
Nha Trang
Nha Trang is recognized for being lively and its turquoise sea – a great stop for those who enjoy sun and sea. Spend your days island hopping, snorkeling around coral reefs, or lounging in natural mud baths. Nightlife can be enjoyed here as well at beach bars, restaurants, or simply grilling seafood on the beach.
Quy Nhon
Quy Nhon is a tranquil coastal city with a less touristy vibe and an incredible landscape. Spend the day on a less crowded beach, such as Ky Co, and enjoy a scenic drive to Eo Gio to experience amazing views of the ocean. The town is known for its tasty local dishes such as “banh xeo tom nhay”, crispy pancakes with fresh shrimp.
Hoi An Ancient Town
Be sure to visit Hoi An Ancient Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is just before Da Nang. Hoi An has charming streets that are lined with paper lanterns, places to get tailor-made clothing, and places to eat that serve fantastic food like Cao Lau, which Hoi An is known for. The old town is also clearly picturesque along the river, which makes it an ideal stop before Da Nang, along with the charming ambiance.
Final Thoughts
Traveling from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang can take a quick flight or a cross-country train ride. Many travelers consider flying practical, while trains allow travelers to see Vietnam’s landscape at a leisurely pace. Buses and road trips are budget and adventure options. Traveling with Seni World will help you plan the itinerary that fits your budget, schedule, and travel style.
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