When it comes to traversing the lush, green countryside of Vietnam, tourists have several options for transportation. The Reunification Express train line, which runs from Hanoi to HCMC, offers scenic views and stops along the Vietnamese coast. Travelers can also choose to explore by local bus or by motorcycle, allowing them to visit off-the-beaten-path destinations. Another immersive way to experience Vietnam is by boat, following the country’s meandering rivers and venturing out to offshore islands, as recommended by Lonely Planet.
Getting to Vietnam is easily done via trains and buses from China, with convenient connections from Nanning to Hanoi and from Kunming to Hanoi through Lao Cai. International buses also operate daily routes from Phnom Penh, Siem Reap, and Sihanoukville in Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC), as well as from Savannakhet in Laos to Hue.
Convenient Buses in Vietnam
Bus travel in Vietnam ranges from convenient and comfortable when traveling between major cities, to slow and cramped when traveling in less-touristed areas. However, bus travel is generally affordable. In popular tourist spots like Hanoi and HCMC, travelers will come across “Open Tour” or “Open Ticket” buses, which offer flexible routes between major cities, allowing passengers to hop on and off at any major city along the way. While slightly pricier than ordinary buses, these services provide the convenience of centrally-located start and stop points.
 |
| Long-distance deluxe sleeper buses come with seats that convert to beds in Vietnam. Photo: Shutterstock / Robert Podlaski |
Regular bus services operate from dedicated bus stations, with some towns having multiple stations serving different destinations. It’s important for travelers to check which station they need to go to. These stations usually have ticket offices displaying prices and departure times. It’s advisable to buy tickets a day in advance to secure a seat.
Moving Around on Motorbikes
Riding a motorcycle from Hanoi to HCMC is a dream for many experienced bikers. There is a thriving industry that caters to travelers attempting this journey, but it’s not recommended for novice riders due to local driving conditions. It’s also important to thoroughly check the condition of motorcycles being rented or purchased from hostels and hotels, as some may be in poor condition.
 |
| Motorcycles are a popular mode of transport in Vietnam © lichtbildfotograf / Getty Images |
Exploring the mountainous northwest region of Vietnam requires a more powerful motorcycle for tackling steep inclines and potholes. Along the coast and in tourist hubs, it’s easy to rent low-powered scooters or motorcycles from cafes, hotels, and travel agencies for local exploration, sometimes at a daily rate as low as US$5.
Rental agreements for motorcycles in Vietnam are often informal, and travelers may be required to leave their passport as security. It’s advisable to seek rental firms that offer insurance and provide a formal rental agreement. Wearing a motorcycle helmet is a legal requirement. Alternatively, some local riders offer chauffeur services on two wheels for around US$30 per day.
Exploring Vietnam’s Backroads on Bicycle
 |
| Cyclists, drivers, moped-riders and pedestrians share the road in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo: Sean Hsu / Shutterstock |
Cycling can be a delightful way to get around Vietnam, especially on quiet rural roads away from the crowded highways. Much of the country’s terrain is flat, and foreign cyclists are often warmly welcomed by locals. Bike workshops can be easily found in case of a flat tire or mechanical issue.
Taking Vietnam’s Most Famous Train Between HCMC and Hanoi
If travelers want to visit both Hanoi and HCMC, as well as the various sights in the central part of Vietnam, there is no better way to explore than by train. The country’s main railway line runs along the coast between these two bustling cities, with stops at numerous destinations along the way.
 |
| Vietnam’s most famous train line runs along most of the coast. Photo: Matt Munro / Lonely Planet |
In addition to the Hanoi to HCMC route, trains also travel from Hanoi to Haiphong for excursions in and around Halong Bay, as well as from Hanoi to Lao Cai, which is a one-hour drive from Sapa, Vietnam’s busiest trekking hub. For travelers heading to China, there are train services connecting Hanoi to Kunming via Lao Cai, and Nanning via the border town of Lang Son, with onward connections to Beijing.
O Quy Ho Pass: heaven and earth meet
O Quy Ho Pass is an important traffic route connecting the two northern mountainous provinces of Lai Chau and Lao Cai; moreover, it is also a tourist attraction thanks to the majestic and green beauty of northwest nature.
When a Travel Vlogger Stays Home: Behind the Scenes of Expat’s High-Flying Lockdown Video
During Hanoi’s extensive lockdown, British expat and vlogger Seán Nolan created a gorgeous short film, using a drone to show off his quiet Tay Ho neighborhood. As the virus continues to mutate around the world, the young creative ponders the future of travel vlogging.
Exploring Vietnam on a Budget? Lonely Planet Suggests Transport Options for Everyone
Lonely Planet, a well-known travel guide, has completed a review of a travel itinerary through Vietnam. Their findings show that it is easy to explore this beautiful country, regardless of a traveler’s budget.
