Vung Tau to Da Nang: How to Travel Between Two Coastal Cities

Vung Tau and Da Nang are two well-known coastal destinations, but traveling between them takes considerably longer than a typical city-to-city trip in southern Vietnam. Depending on your schedule and budget, you can choose between flying, taking a train, traveling by bus, or driving. This guide from Joytime Travel breaks down the main routes and helps you plan the journey from Vung Tau to Da Nang and back.

1. Vung Tau to Da Nang: How Far and How Long? 

Vung Tau to Da Nang - Source: Pinterest 

1.1. The Distance Between Vung Tau and Da Nang

Vung Tau and Da Nang are separated by a substantial stretch of Vietnam's coastline. The straight-line distance is around 720 km, while the road distance is considerably longer at approximately 880 km. This difference is important when comparing travel times because road-based journeys have to follow the country's transport network rather than a direct line between the two cities.

There is also no airport in Vung Tau offering a direct commercial flight to Da Nang. For most travelers who want to fly, the practical route is to travel from Vung Tau to Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) in Ho Chi Minh City, then take a domestic flight to Da Nang International Airport (DAD).

1.2. How Long Should You Expect to Travel?

The total journey time varies considerably depending on the transport method. Flying takes around 1 hour 25 minutes in the air, but the full trip is longer once you include travel from Vung Tau to Tan Son Nhat Airport, airport procedures, and the transfer from Da Nang Airport to your accommodation.

By train, the journey from Saigon Station to Da Nang usually takes around 17 to 19 hours, depending on the service. Vietnam Railways currently operates several services throughout the day. Sleeper buses generally take around 19 to 25 hours, with current services ranging from about 19 hours 30 minutes to over 24 hours. Driving covers roughly 882 km and can take around 11 hours without accounting for breaks, traffic, or road conditions.

1.3. Why the Route You Choose Matters

The best way to travel from Vung Tau to Da Nang depends on more than the cost of the ticket. The time and effort needed to reach your departure point can also affect the overall trip. A flight is the fastest option in the air, but requires extra transfers before and after flying. A train takes longer but allows you to board in Ho Chi Minh City and travel overnight without changing vehicles. A sleeper bus can take you directly from Vung Tau to Da Nang, avoiding the need to travel to Saigon Station first.

Your itinerary also matters. If you have only a few days in Da Nang, saving travel time may be a priority. For slower journeys through Vietnam, however, a longer train or road trip can become part of the travel experience itself. The time you spend in Vung Tau before setting off can also be shaped around the attractions you want to see, with Vung Tau Tours covering different ways to explore the coastal city. 

>>> Read more: Whale Temple Vung Tau: A Coastal Heritage Site to Explore

2. Flying From Vung Tau to Da Nang

Fly from Vung Tau to Da Nang - Source: Vietjet Air 

2.1. Getting From Vung Tau to Tan Son Nhat Airport

The first stage of a flight itinerary is getting from Vung Tau to Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City. This can be done by private car, taxi, or limousine service.

Travel time varies with traffic and your exact starting point, but current transport schedules show that limousine services between Vung Tau and Tan Son Nhat can take roughly three hours, while some services take around two hours 15 minutes. Early departures are available, which can be useful if your flight leaves in the morning.

When booking an airport transfer, don’t plan around the flight's departure time alone. Leave enough room for traffic on the route into Ho Chi Minh City and the time required at the airport. A transfer that looks convenient on paper can become stressful if the road journey runs late.

2.2. Flights From Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang

The flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang takes around 1 hour 25 minutes, with Vietnam Airlines listing about 15 flights per day and one-way economy fares from approximately VND 1.097 million. Actual fares vary depending on the date, fare class, and availability.

Other airlines also serve this route, so checking schedules can help you choose a departure that suits your itinerary. However, remember to factor in the time needed to travel from Vung Tau to Tan Son Nhat Airport and complete airport procedures when comparing flying with a sleeper bus or train.

2.3. Getting From Da Nang Airport Into the City

Da Nang International Airport is relatively close to the city center, which makes the final stage of the journey much simpler than the transfer at the southern end. Vietnam Airlines places the airport at approximately 3 km from central Da Nang. Depending on your hotel location, you can continue by taxi, ride-hailing service, or private transfer.

If you’re staying around the Han River, My Khe Beach, or the city center, the airport transfer usually does not require a long journey. This also means that travelers arriving by air can move from the airport to their accommodation relatively quickly after landing.

2.4. When Flying Makes Sense for This Route

Flying is a practical choice if you want to minimize the long-distance travel time, especially with a tight Da Nang itinerary. However, the flight is only part of the journey. You also need to account for the transfer from Vung Tau to Tan Son Nhat Airport, check-in, security, waiting time, and the journey from Da Nang Airport to your accommodation. When comparing options, consider the full door-to-door journey rather than the 1-hour-25-minute flight alone. After covering that distance, having your Da Nang activities planned in advance can save some time, especially for popular sights and day trips. Da Nang Tours brings together different ways to explore the city and its surrounding attractions. 

3. Other Ways to Make the Trip

3.1. Taking a Train From the South to Da Nang

Travelling by train - Source: Central Vietnam Guide 

Vung Tau has no railway station, so train travelers first need to reach Saigon Station in Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnam Railways operates several services from Saigon to Da Nang, including SE8, SE6, SE10, SE4, and SE2. The journey takes roughly 17 to 19 hours, with sleeper berths available for overnight travel. This option works well for travelers comfortable with a longer journey and offers different berth types to suit various budgets. The main drawback is the additional transfer from Vung Tau to Saigon Station before boarding the train.

3.2. Traveling by Sleeper Bus

Travelling by sleeper bus - Source: Pinterest 

Sleeper buses are a convenient option for travelers who prefer a direct road journey. Current services from Vung Tau to Da Nang generally take around 19 to 25 hours, depending on the operator. The main advantage is that you can depart directly from Vung Tau without first traveling to Ho Chi Minh City. Some operators also offer sleeper or cabin-style buses for greater comfort.

Before booking, check the departure point, arrival location, number of stops, vehicle type, and expected arrival time, as these can vary between services. For an overnight trip, keep essentials such as water, snacks, medication, charging cables, and valuables within easy reach.

3.3. Going by Private Car

Travelling by private car - Source: Vietnam Vacation Travel 

Driving offers the most flexibility, with the road distance between Vung Tau and Da Nang at around 882 km and a nonstop driving time of roughly 11 hours. In reality, the journey will take longer with breaks, fuel stops, traffic, and road conditions. A private car is especially practical for groups or travelers who want to stop along the way and split the journey over multiple days. For solo travelers, driving the full distance can be tiring, so it is better to plan regular breaks or an overnight stop.

4. Da Nang to Vung Tau: Making the Return Trip

Da Nang to Vung Tau - Source: 12Go 

4.1. Choosing Your Departure Point in Da Nang

The return journey follows the same options in reverse, but your departure point in Da Nang matters. For flights, you will leave from Da Nang International Airport, about 3 km from the city center, making it easy to reach from central areas.

For trains, head to Da Nang Railway Station and take a southbound service to Saigon. Vietnam Railways operates several trains, with some arriving in Saigon the following day. For buses, check the operator's exact pickup point, as services may depart from different offices or designated locations rather than one central terminal.

4.2. Planning the Journey Back to Vung Tau

If you fly from Da Nang, the journey continues after landing in Ho Chi Minh City, as you still need to travel from Tan Son Nhat Airport to Vung Tau. Vietnam Airlines lists the Da Nang - Ho Chi Minh City flight at around 1 hour 25 minutes, with no direct Da Nang - Vung Tau flight. For trains, allow extra time to continue from Saigon to Vung Tau after arrival, especially if traveling with heavy luggage.

4.3. Coordinating Transport Connections

The return journey is easier when you plan each connection together rather than separately. After a flight, allow extra time for baggage collection, delays, airport traffic, and finding your onward transport before continuing to Vung Tau. The same applies to trains and buses, so check the exact arrival and departure points before booking connections. Whenever possible, leave a few hours between major connections. This gives you more flexibility if part of the journey runs late.

>>> Read more: 1 Day in Da Nang: Perfect Itinerary [2026 Updated] 

5. Vung Tau to Da Nang FAQs

5.1. Is Vung Tau to Da Nang a Popular Travel Route?

Traveling from Vung Tau to Da Nang means covering a considerable distance, but there are several ways to make the journey depending on your travel style and schedule.

You can fly via Ho Chi Minh City for a quicker journey, take the train from Saigon for a more relaxed overnight trip, or choose a sleeper bus that takes you directly from Vung Tau toward Da Nang. For travelers starting in Vung Tau, the best option depends on how you want to spend your time: getting to Da Nang quickly, enjoying a more comfortable journey, or taking the slower route and seeing more of Vietnam along the way.

5.2. Can I Travel With Pets From Vung Tau to Da Nang?

Pet policies vary by provider. Vietnam Airlines allows eligible dogs and cats in the cabin up to a combined pet-and-carrier weight of 6 kg, while Vietnam Railways permits certain small pets if properly contained. Bus policies differ by operator, with some allowing small pets on board. Always check the latest rules with your chosen provider before booking. 

5.3. Is It Better to Travel From Vung Tau to Da Nang During the Day or at Night?

There is no single schedule that suits everyone. A daytime flight can get you to Da Nang with more time to explore, while a day train offers scenic views but takes considerably longer. Overnight trains and sleeper buses can save daytime hours and allow you to arrive early in the morning.

When planning, consider your arrival time as much as your departure. An early arrival may be inconvenient for check-in, while a late arrival can limit your first evening. Choose a schedule that fits comfortably with your accommodation and Da Nang itinerary.

Getting from Vung Tau to Da Nang requires a little more planning than a shorter coastal transfer, particularly when you need to connect through Ho Chi Minh City for a flight or train. Flying can shorten the travel day considerably, while buses, trains, and private cars offer different ways to balance comfort, flexibility, and cost. Looking at the complete journey from departure point to accommodation will make it easier to choose an option that fits your itinerary.

Once your transport is arranged, you can focus on enjoying your time in Da Nang. For more Vietnam travel guides, destination ideas, and practical tips, visit Joytime: Vietnam Travel and continue planning your trip.