How Far Is Hanoi from Ho Chi Minh City? 4+ Travel Options for Tourists

The estimation on how far from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City is approximately 1,723 km via National Highway 1A. This article will provide detailed information on four popular transportation options and useful tips for your journey.

1. Locations and Distance from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

• Location of Hanoi: Hanoi, Vietnam 

• Location of the City. Ho Chi Minh: Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam 

Distance from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh: 

• By Air: Around 1,161 km, taking 2–3 hours

• By Train: Approximately 1,730 km on the North-South Railway, taking 31–36 hours

• By Road: Over 30 hours by vehicle

  • Via National Highway 1A: About 1,723 km, a modern route with ample roadside services

  • Via Ho Chi Minh Trail: Approximately 1,726 km, passing through scenic mountainous areas with historical sites

Tourists can travel between the two cities by plane, train, bus or self-drive.

 

Ho Chi Minh - A bustling, vibrant city that always welcomes visitors - Image source: Freepik 

Details on 4 Ways to Travel from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

Brief Comparisons on Transportation Modes from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City

2. By Plane - The Fastest Way

Flying is the fastest and most popular option, loved for its convenience and time efficiency. Vietnam’s aviation services have been modernized, with reputable airlines offering diverse options for travelers.

Duration: About 2 hours 30 minutes

Average Price: 1,419,000 - 1,929,000 VND (~60–115 USD)

Advantages: 

• The fastest mode of travel, saving dozens of hours compared to other options.

• High safety standards with strict checks and modern technology.

• Available in-flight comforts like comfortable seating, snacks, and entertainment systems.

• Flexible schedules for convenient flight timing.

Recommended Airlines:

Joytime's airport shuttle service is always ready to serve visitors 24/7 - Photo source: Joytime

Traveling Tips:

• Booking tickets early for the best deals, ideally 2 to 3 weeks in advance.

• Choosing off-peak flight times (after 8 PM or 12–3 PM) to save costs.

• Ensuring you have all necessary documents and pack according to airline regulations.

• Arriving at the airport at least 1 or 1.5 hours before departure.

3. Travel by Train - A Scenic Journey

Train is also a preferred transportation mode from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City, considering that you desire a nostalgic and scenic traveling journey along the way. The North-South railway spans over 1,700 km to connect major cities like Da Nang, Hue, and Nha Trang!

Duration: About 31 to 34 hours

Average Price: Depending on service class and bed type, estimated:

• Hard seat: 744,000 VND (~30 USD)

• Soft seat: 830,000 VND (~34 USD)

• Hard sleeper: 950,000 VND (~39 USD)

• Soft sleeper: 1,000,000 VND (~41 USD)

Advantages:

• Stable ticket prices, ideal for long journeys with families or groups.

• An increased freedom and comfort for passengers mobility.

• Spectacular scenery, especially across Hai Van Pass or the central coastline.

• Eco-friendly travel with lower carbon emissions.

How to book a train from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City: 

Tourists admire the beautiful scenery of mountains and clouds through the window - Image source: Freepik 

Traveling Tips:

• Choosing sleeper tickets for more comfort, especially on long trips as lower berths are usually more convenient and spacious.

• Bringing books, headphones, and favorite music or movies to stay entertained.

• Sitting near the window and even taking anti-sickness medication or fresh ginger if you're prone to motion sickness.

• Keeping your personal belongings safe while sleeping, for example, using a lockable bag for added security.

• Researching stops to buy local specialties or breathe fresh air.

4. Travel by Coach - A Budget-Friendly Choice

The idea of taking a coach is less favored among travelers due to its lengthy travel time and the potential for discomfort. However, this option does offer significant advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and safety.

Duration: About 30 - 36 hours

Average Price: 650,000 - 950,000 VND (~27 - 39 USD)

Advantages:

• Affordable ticket prices, suitable for a wide range of travelers.

• Modern coaches equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, charging ports, drinking water, and cool towels, ensuring a comfortable experience for passengers.

• Spacious luggage storage.

Recommended coach operators:

North-South bus service is increasingly upgraded to modernity - Photo source: Tan Quang Dung Facebook 

Traveling Tips:

• Choosing reputable operators with good reviews.

• Booking tickets in advance, especially during holidays.

• Checking travel details such as time and pickup/drop-off points.

• Bringing snacks, water, and motion sickness medication if needed.

• Keeping the bus operator's contact information handy for emergencies.

5. By Self-Drive – An Adventurous Road Trip

Advantages:

• Flexible scheduling and routes, not restricted by fixed departure times or stops.

• Freedom to explore scenic attractions or take breaks along the journey.

• A wonderful sense of adventure, particularly for travelers with a strong personality seeking memorable experiences.

Traveling on your own provides the opportunity for exciting discoveries - Image source: Freepik 

Traveling Tips:

• Considering your financial situation and physical condition before embarking on a self-drive journey from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. This method is not recommended for international tourists.

• Inspecting and service your vehicle beforehand to ensure that you carry all necessary documents and a valid driver's license.

• Preparing a budget for meals, accommodations, and unexpected expenses.

• Packing tools and items for adverse weather conditions or fatigue during the trip.

• Bringing only essential luggage and being ready to embrace the adventure.

6. 3 Frequently Asked Questions

To help travelers choose the best mode of transportation, Joytime answers three commonly asked questions:

6.1. What is the fastest means of transportation from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City?

Airplane is the fastest mode, taking only about 2 hours and 30 minutes from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City.

6.2. What is the most economical means of transportation from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City?

Coach is the most budget-friendly option, with ticket prices starting from 650,000 VND.

6.3. What is the best means of transportation from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City?

It depends on individual preferences:

• For speed and comfort: Airplane

• For a relaxing journey with scenic views: Train

• For budget-conscious travelers: Coach

• For flexibility and memorable experiences: Self-drive

If you want to continue exploring the northwestern mountainous region of Vietnam, you can visit Sapa, which is rich in Vietnamese culture. For a smooth and memorable trip, Let's find out How to get to Sapa Vietnam from Hanoi to check out the best travel options!

With a distance of 1,723 km, travelers have a variety of transportation options based on how far from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The very next step is to consider your preferences, budget, and needs when making your decision. For those flying, Joytime offers airport transfer services for a fast, convenient, and thoughtful experience.