How to get from Saigon to Nha Trang? 9+ Transportation Methods for Travelers!

Traveling from Saigon to Nha Trang is a journey of about 400 km, offering a variety of transportation options for tourists. With this distance, visitors can choose from many means of transportation including: airplanes, trains, coaches, limousines, cars and motorbikes. Each means of transport brings a unique nuance and experience, meeting all the needs and preferences of travelers.

If you prioritize speed and convenience, airplanes are definitely the ideal "companion". However, if you want to fully enjoy the beauty of the Central region, immerse yourself in the wonderful coastal roads, coaches, limousines, trains or even a motorbike tour are options that are hard to miss.

1. How Far From Saigon to Nha Trang?

Answer: The distance from Saigon to Nha Trang is about 400 km. It should take about 5 hours and 53 minutes to drive.

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

• Location of Nha Trang: Khanh Hoa Province, South Central Coast, Central Vietnam.

The distance from Saigon to Nha Trang by route is as follows:

• Airway: Roughly 396 km, with a flight time of 1 hour and 15 minutes.

• Railway: Roughly 411 km, with a flight time of 7 hour and 15 minutes.

• Road:: 

  • North - South Expressway East/CT01: the distance is about 400 km, taking 5 hours and 50 minutes to travel, this is the fastest and toll route.

  • QL1A and North - South Expressway East/CT01: the route is 415km long, taking about 7 hours and 13 minutes to travel.

With the above distances, visitors can travel by many methods including airplanes, trains, coaches, cars, and motorbikes depending on personal needs.

The distance from Saigon to Nha Trang. - Photo Source: Google Maps

2. Details of 9 Transportation Methods from Ho Chi Minh to Nha Trang

Here is an overview of transportation options:

A Quick Comparison on How to Get from Sagon to Nha Trang

2.1. By plane

Although there are no direct flights from Saigon to Nha Trang city center, visitors can easily travel by air to Cam Ranh Airport (Khanh Hoa), then travel by road about 35 km to Nha Trang.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour 20 minutes - 1 hour 30 minutes

Average cost: 700,000 - 2,000,000 VND (30 USD - 85 USD)

Advantages:

• Only takes more than 1 hour of flight, helping to optimize exploration time compared to spending many hours traveling by other means.

• Avoid long and tiring journeys, you will arrive in Nha Trang with a refreshed spirit, ready for exciting experiences.

• Experience quality airline services, including comfortable seats, snacks and entertainment facilities.

• With a large flight frequency, you can easily choose and arrange the most suitable schedule for your trip.

How to book a flight ticket?

• Book tickets online on the airline's website/app, carefully consider flight times and schedules that are most suitable for you.

• You can book tickets through reputable agents for quick advice and support.

• You can also buy tickets right at the airport, but this option is not recommended during peak tourist periods due to the possibility of no seats available.

Recommended airlines:

Airplanes are a fast and convenient means of transport for the journey from Saigon to Nha Trang. - Photo Source: Freepik

Traveling tips:

• Book your flight tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays, to have the opportunity to get the best price and choose your preferred flight time.

Find out which airlines are offering the Saigon - Nha Trang route, then compare ticket prices, service quality, and baggage regulations. You need to remember that service quality goes hand in hand with price, so choose a ticket that suits your budget and needs.

• Capture information about promotions from airlines, especially during major holidays.

• Check-in online before your flight to save waiting time at the airport.

• Learn carefully about the airline's regulations on the size and weight of carry-on and checked baggage, pack your baggage neatly and avoid carrying prohibited items.

• Make sure you have a valid ID card/Citizen ID card or passport.

• Estimate the travel time to Tan Son Nhat Airport (SGN) reasonably to avoid missing your flight.

2.2. By train

Trains are a popular long-distance transportation, offering a slow and comfortable travel experience for visitors.

Duration: Approximately 6 - 9 hours

Average cost: Depending on the service class and type of bed, estimated:

• Hard seat: $25 – $40

• Soft seat: $45 – $60

• Soft sleeper (4-bed compartment): $60 – $80

• VIP sleeper (2-bed compartment): $80 – $100

Advantages:

• The railway journey is a great opportunity for you to enjoy the beautiful natural scenery of Vietnam.

• Train fares are often very economical, suitable for many people's budgets.

• With a spacious and comfortable sleeping berth, you can move freely and relax your body, limiting the fatigue of long journeys.

• Trains offer a "slow" travel experience, allowing you to relax, enjoy the trip and observe the surrounding life.

How to book a train ticket? 

• Visit the official website of Vietnam Railways here to book tickets online, choose a train, ticket class and pay through supported gateways.

• You can also buy tickets quickly through popular e-wallet applications such as MoMo, ZaloPay, VNPay,... or bank applications such as Vietcombank, Agribank, Sacombank,... according to the instructions on each application.

• In case you want to buy tickets directly, Saigon station at 01 Nguyen Thong Street, Ward 9, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City will be the destination. Here, staff will advise and help you find the most suitable train and ticket type. You can contact in advance through the phone numbers 1900 636 212 - 02873 053 053 - 0335 023 023 to have your questions answered before coming to the station.

You can travel from Saigon to Nha Trang by train to admire the natural scenery slowly. - Photo Source: Freepik

Traveling tips:

• Buy train tickets early to ensure you have a seat and can choose the seat/bed type you want, especially during peak tourist season or holidays.

• Choose a sleeper ticket for a more comfortable journey, especially when this is a long journey.

• Because the train journey is quite long, you should bring snacks and drinks for convenient use. Although food is also sold on the train, prices may be higher.

• Arrive at Saigon station at least 30 minutes before the train departs to complete procedures and find the correct train car location.

• You can bring entertainment and warm clothes, as the temperature in the train compartment can be quite cold.

• Before getting off the train, check your luggage to make sure you don't leave anything behind.

2.3. By coach/bus

Coaches are a popular road transportation with affordable prices, a wide network of routes and many flexible departure times.

Duration: Approximately 8 hours

Average cost: Approximately 200,000 - 500,000 VND (7.85 - 19.61 USD)

Advantages:

• With different price segments, coaches meet the needs of a variety of passengers.

• There are many buses departing every day, at different times, making it easy for you to choose a time that suits your plan.

• Some bus companies provide pick-up/drop-off services at home or at convenient stops along the way, helping you save travel costs and time.

Recommended coach operators: 

You can choose the Ho Chi Minh City - Nha Trang Round-Trip Sleeper Bus Service | Vietnam from Joytime to make your trip more convenient and comfortable.

Traveling tips:

• Carefully research bus companies, read reviews from previous customers to choose a bus company with good service, quality buses and safe drivers.

• If you are prone to motion sickness, choose a seat at the top or middle of the car, choose a sleeper class because this journey is quite long.

• Book tickets in advance, especially on holidays, peak tourist season to ensure seats and avoid sold-out tickets.

• Bring a jacket or an extra light blanket because the air conditioning on the bus is often quite cold.

• Keep your personal luggage carefully, especially valuable items.

Coaches are a popular and economical means of transport for the Saigon - Nha Trang route. - Photo Source: Freepik

2.4. By Limousine

Limousines offer a significantly more upscale experience than traditional coaches, with spacious space, top-notch comfortable seats and attentive customer service.

Duration: Approximately 7 - 8 hours

Average cost: Approximately 350,000 - 1,000,000 VND (13.73 - 39.23 USD)

Advantages:

• Spacious seating space with modern amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, USB charging ports, and separate entertainment screens, providing maximum comfort.

• Well-trained staff, dedicated and attentive service. Some car companies also provide free drinks and cold towels to enhance the passenger experience.

• With a limited number of seats compared to regular coaches, limousines offer more private and quiet space for each passenger.

• Most limousine car companies provide pick-up and drop-off services at the city center, providing maximum convenience for passengers.

• Limousines are usually new car models, regularly maintained to high standards, ensuring safety and comfort for passengers throughout the journey.

Recommended limousine operators: 

Traveling tips:

• Carefully research limousine car companies, especially reviews from previous customers. This will help you choose a car company with good service, quality cars and professional staff.

• Limousines often have a limited number of seats, so booking tickets in advance is essential, especially on holidays or peak tourist season.

• If you are prone to motion sickness, choose a seat at the front or middle of the car.

• Bring a light jacket because the air conditioning on the car is often quite cold.

• Keep your personal luggage carefully, especially valuable items.

Limousines provide a high-class travel experience for visitors on their journey to Nha Trang from Saigon. - Photo Source: Freepik

2.5. By private car

If you prefer proactivity and want to experience traveling your own way, renting a car is a great option.

Duration: 8 - 10 hours (depending on speed, rest time, places to visit,...)

Average cost: Usually, the total cost of a self-driving car trip includes:

• Car rental fee: 500,000 - 2,000,000 VND/day (20 - 79 USD/per day)

• Fuel cost: 500,000 - 600,000 VND (19.61 - 23.54 USD)

• Toll fees: 500,000 - 1,000,000 VND (20 - 40 USD)

• Other incurred costs (if any) such as parking, rest stops,...

Advantages:

• You completely decide the schedule, can stop anywhere and anytime you want, explore locations outside the fixed route of public transport.

• Is an ideal choice for families or large groups of friends, both saving costs and enjoying private and comfortable space.

• Not bound by the fixed hours of public transport, you can start and end your journey whenever you want.

• Self-driving allows you to explore little-known places, experience local life more authentically and deeply.

Recommended places for car rental: 

Traveling tips: 

• Check and maintain the car comprehensively before the trip, paying attention to tires, brakes, engine oil, coolant, lights, turn signals, wipers,...

• Carefully research the travel route, identify stops for rest, meals and book hotel rooms in advance (if overnight stay is required), especially during peak tourist season.

• Make sure you carry your driver's license, vehicle registration, vehicle insurance, and other necessary personal papers.

• Bringing a basic repair kit, spare tires, car jack, flashlight,... will help you solve unexpected problems that may occur on the road.

• Strictly comply with road traffic laws, fasten your seat belt, absolutely do not drive after drinking alcohol and maintain a safe speed.

• You should stop to rest after every 2-3 hours of driving to avoid fatigue, ensuring safety for the entire journey.

• Pay attention to traffic signs, keep a safe distance from other vehicles.

• Avoid illegal parking to avoid obstructing traffic or being fined.

• Maintain a stable speed, avoid sudden braking or acceleration.

• If possible, make sure at least two people know how to drive so they can take turns driving, helping to avoid fatigue.

• Make sure your phone is always fully charged, and bring a portable charger.

You can rent a self-driving car to travel from Saigon to Nha Trang. - Photo Source: Freepik

2.6. By motorbike

Motorbikes are an ideal choice for free travel enthusiasts, wanting to fully explore the beauty of the roads on the journey from Saigon to Nha Trang.

Duration: 8 - 10 hours (depending on speed, rest time, places to visit,...)

Average cost: 

• Rental fee: 100,000 - 500,000 VND/day (4 - 20 USD/per day), depending on the type of motorbike

• Fuel cost: 200,000 - 250,000 VND (7.85 - 9.81 USD)

• Other incurred costs (if any) such as parking, rest stops,...

Advantages: 

• You are completely free to plan your trip, stop wherever and whenever you like, explore unique destinations outside the usual route.

• Not bound by fixed schedules, you can start and stop as you like.

• Driving a motorbike yourself allows you to set foot in little-known places, enjoy local life in the most authentic way.

• You can truly "live" in every moment of the trip, breathe the fresh air, admire the majestic nature and feel absolute freedom.

Recommended places for motorbike rental:

Traveling tips: 

• Check carefully and maintain the motorbike comprehensively before departure, including checking tires, brakes, engine oil, coolant, lights, turn signals.

• Research the route carefully, identify stops, rest, meals and book hotel rooms in advance (in case of overnight stay), especially during peak tourist season.

• Don't forget to bring all vehicle documents, driver's license, ID card/Citizen ID card and motorbike insurance.

• Equip yourself with a high-quality helmet, jacket, gloves, protective shoes to ensure maximum safety throughout the journey.

• Always comply with traffic laws, wear a helmet, do not run red lights and absolutely do not drive after drinking alcohol.

• Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, slow down when traveling through residential areas, bad roads or in unfavorable weather conditions.

• Stop to rest after every 2-3 hours of driving to avoid fatigue and ensure safety.

• Replenish water regularly to avoid dehydration, especially on hot days.

• Monitor the weather forecast to prepare appropriate clothing and choose the appropriate departure time.

• Travel in groups to support each other and increase safety on the road.

• Inform your relatives of your schedule so they can contact you when needed.

• Make sure your phone is always fully charged and bring a portable charger to maintain contact.

Motorbikes are ideal companions for free travel enthusiasts. - Photo Source: Freepik

2.7. Ferry to Vung Tau + Bus/Train to Nha Trang

Combining waterway and road/rail travel will bring a diverse experience for the journey from Saigon to Nha Trang.

Instructions on travel steps:

Stage 1: Take a ferry from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau (~ 2 - 3 hours)

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours

• Average cost: Approximately 350,000 VND - 500,000 VND (15 - 22 USD).

• Suggested booking method: Greenlines DP.

Stage 2: From Vung Tau, take a bus or train to Nha Trang (~7 - 8 hours)

• Duration: Approximately 7 - 8 hours

• Average cost: Approximately 300,000 VND - 500,000 VND (13 - 22 USD).

• Suggested booking method: Book online through bus company websites/phone numbers or the Vietnam Railways website. Alternatively, you can buy directly at the bus station or train station.

You can take a ferry from Saigon to Vung Tau, then continue to Nha Trang by bus or train. - Photo Source: Freepik

2.8. Flight to Cam Ranh + Train to Nha Trang

You can choose a combination of air and train travel to save time and have the opportunity to see beautiful scenery along the way.

Instructions on travel steps:: 

Chặng 1: Fly from Ho Chi Minh City to Cam Ranh

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour

• Average cost: Approximately 700,000 - 2,000,000 VND (30 - 85 USD). This cost varies greatly depending on the time of booking.

• Suggested airlines: Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air

Chặng 2: Take a train from Cam Ranh to Nha Trang 

• Duration: Approximately 1 hour

• Average cost: Approximately 50,000 VND - 300,000 VND (2 - 13 USD) depending on the type of seat.

• Booking method: You can book tickets, choose a date Here.

2.9. Train to Phan Thiet + Bus to Nha Trang

Combining scenic train travel and convenient coaches, bringing a diverse travel experience from Saigon to Nha Trang.

Step 1: Take a train from Ho Chi Minh City to Phan Thiet 

• Duration: Approximately 3.5 - 4 hours.

• Average cost: Approximately 150,000 VND - 400,000 VND (6 - 17 USD), depending on the type of seat.

• Suggested booking: You can book tickets here.

Step 2: Take a bus from Phan Thiet to Nha Trang 

• Duration: Approximately 4 - 5 hours.

• Average cost: Approximately 150,000 VND - 350,000 VND (6 - 15 USD).

• Suggested bus companies: Hanh Cafe, Phuong Nam, Minh Uyen, Tuan Tu Express.

Visitors can combine many forms of transport to get to Nha Trang. - Photo Source: Pexels

3. 5+ Travel Tips for the Trip from Saigon to Nha Trang

To make your trip from Saigon to Nha Trang complete and smooth, refer to the following useful tips:

• Consider carefully the means of transport (airplane, train, coach, motorbike) based on your needs, preferences and budget.

• Especially during holidays or peak tourist season, booking tickets early will help you get a good price and ensure a seat.

• Bring all personal documents (ID card/Citizen ID card, driver's license,...), personal belongings, necessary medicines and supporting items (portable charger, map,...).

• Clearly define the itinerary, attractions, accommodation and contingency plans to avoid unexpected situations.

• Nha Trang has two distinct seasons: the rainy season (from September to December) and the dry season (from January to August), so check the weather forecast carefully before going to have the best preparation.

Visitors should check the weather before coming to Nha Trang for the best travel experience. - Photo Source: Pexels

4. FAQs on How to Get from Saigon to Nha Trang

To help you have an overview and choose the most suitable transportation option, here are some frequently asked questions and detailed answers:

4.1. What is the fastest way to travel from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang?

Answer: Airplanes are the fastest means of transport, with flight times of only about 1 hour 20 minutes - 1 hour 30 minutes.

4.2. What is the cheapest way to travel from Saigon to Nha Trang?

Answer: Coaches or trains are usually the most cost-effective options, especially if you choose economy class tickets or coaches.

4.3. Are there ferries or boats from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang? 

Answer: There are no direct ferries or boats from Ho Chi Minh City to Nha Trang. However, you can take a ferry from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau, then continue to Nha Trang by bus or train.

4.4. What is the best way to travel if I want a scenic experience?

Answer: Trains are a great option if you want to see the beautiful scenery along the way. Or you can travel by motorbike to freely explore and immerse yourself in nature.

Trains offer visitors the opportunity to admire the rural scenery of Vietnam.  - Photo Source: Freepik

Whether you are someone who likes speed, comfort, economy or adventure, the journey from Saigon to Nha Trang always has suitable transportation options. This article has given you an overview of the various means of transport, from convenient airplanes, romantic trains, economical coaches, luxurious limousines, to free motorbike backpacking trips and other unique combination options

If you want a truly relaxing trip and don't want to worry about finding and arranging transportation, or wondering how to get from Saigon to Nha Trang and how far from Saigon to Nha Trang, let Joytime accompany you on your journey to explore Nha Trang! With professionally designed tour packages, Joytime will take care of every detail, so you can fully immerse yourself in wonderful experiences. Contact Joytime now for more information and to book a tour!