How to get from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang Oliver Anderson, December 22, 2023December 28, 2023 Reading time 8 minutes Vietnam is a sprawling and diverse country, filled with fascinating cities and towns. However, two cities often attract travellers’ attention – Ho Chi Minh and Da Nang. So, how does one get from bustling Ho Chi Minh in the south to laid-back Da Nang in the central region? Selected from a variety of options, one can opt for flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang, a luxury train from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang, or other land routes. This article provides useful information about different transportation means and tips to navigate your journey smoothly. Contents hide 1 Overview of Ho Chi Minh and Da Nang 2 Why Go From Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang? 3 Transportation Methods 3.1 By Air 3.1.1 Tips for Finding Cheap Flights 3.2 By Train 3.2.1 Hidden Gems Along the Train Route 3.3 By Bus 3.3.1 Preparing for the Long Bus Ride 3.4 By Motorbike 3.4.1 Essential Tips for Motorbiking 4 What To Do in Da Nang 4.1 Famous Landmarks 4.2 Local Cuisine 5 Conclusion 5.1 Frequently Asked Questions Overview of Ho Chi Minh and Da Nang Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam, known for its French colonial landmarks, best hotels Ho Chi Minh City and history from the Vietnam War. Here, travellers can stay in luxurious accommodations while visiting the Independence Palace, War Remnants Museum, and taking a stroll along the Saigon River. Conversely, Da Nang is located on Vietnam’s eastern sea coast, a coastal city famous for its sandy beaches and tasty seafood. Known landmarks include Marble Mountains and the Lady Buddha Statue. Why Go From Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang? Travelling from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang offers an incredible variety in scenery, culture, and pace of life. Ho Chi Minh city represents the urbanization and capitalism speed, while Da Nang shows a slice of coastal life. Moreover, the route between these cities offers travellers a chance to delve deeper into Vietnam’s rich cultural and geographic diversity, capturing the country’s heart. Transportation Methods By Air The fastest and easiest way to get from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang is through direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang. Several airlines operate daily flights. Travellers can depart from Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh and land in Da Nang International Airport within 1.5 hours. AirlineDepartureArrivalDurationVietnam Airlines10:0011:301hr 30mVietJet Air12:0013:351hr 35mBamboo Airlines14:0015:301hr 30m Tips for Finding Cheap Flights Start searching for tickets as early as possible. Use flight comparison websites to find the best deals. By Train Train travel in Vietnam is another popular choice to travel from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang. The journey takes between 17 to 20 hours, depending on the specific train. The luxury train from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang is especially favored by travellers for its comfort and services. Train journeys unravel the mesmerizing countryside and coastal vistas along the way. Hidden Gems Along the Train Route Nha Trang: Known for its beaches and diving sites. It is a must-visit spot for beach lovers. Quy Nhon: A vibrant port city with a rich history and delicious seafood to enjoy. By Bus If you are traveling on a budget, bus travel from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang is an affordable option. Several bus companies offer sleeper buses that leave in the evening and arrive the next morning which can save you from a night’s accommodation cost. The journey usually takes about 15 to 18 hours, but can be longer based on the traffic conditions. While the bus ride is longer than flying or taking a train, it is still a great way to meet locals and fellow travelers. Preparing for the Long Bus Ride For the long overland journey, preparation is key. Packing a small bag with travel essentials like snacks, a water bottle, headphones, and books can enhance comfort during the ride. Above all, an open mind and attitude toward the journey will make your bus ride an adventure in its own right. By Motorbike If adventure is your middle name, then traveling from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang by motorbike will definitely be up your alley. This can be risky, so it’s recommended for travellers who are experienced motorbike riders. The journey offers unparalleled freedom and the chance to witness Vietnam’s stunning landscapes at your own pace. Essential Tips for Motorbiking Check Road Conditions: Vietnam’s road conditions can be quite challenging, ensuring you check the road conditions before you ride is of utmost importance. Expand Your Time Frame: When traveling by motorbike, always plan on taking extra time, as minor setbacks can occur during the ride. What To Do in Da Nang Welcome to the vibrant city of Da Nang! This coastal city offers something for everyone, from beautiful sandy beaches to ancient landmarks, delicious seafood and a buzzing nightlife. Famous Landmarks Da Nang is home to several noteworthy landmarks. The Marble Mountains, five limestone and marble hills containing caves and tunnels, are a must-visit. The Lady Buddha Statue, standing tall at 67 meters, provides a panoramic view of the city. Local Cuisine Da Nang is also a food lover’s paradise, offering mouth-watering local dishes like Mì Quảng (Quảng-style noodle), and Bánh canh cá lóc (Fish cake noodle), and succulent seafood options. Conclusion Regardless of how you choose to get there, the journey from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang is as much a part of the adventure as the destination itself. So whether you fly, catch the train, jump on a bus, or brave the motorbike ride, be prepared to be delighted by unforgettable sights and experiences along the way. Frequently Asked Questions 1. Is it safe to travel from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang by motorbike? While navigating through Vietnam’s traffic can be chaotic for the uninitiated, it is still manageable for experienced riders. However, it is recommended that novice riders do not choose this form of travel. 2. What should I pack for the long bus ride? Pack essentials like snacks, a water bottle, headphones, books, or a neck pillow. It’s also a good idea to bring a light jacket as the air conditioning on the bus can tend to be very high. 3. What local dishes should I try in Da Nang? Local dishes to try include the Mì Quảng (a type of Vietnamese noodle dish), Bánh canh cá lóc (Fish cake noodle), and don’t forget to sample the fresh seafood! 4. How long is the flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang? The flight duration from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang is approximately 1.5 hours. 5. Can I book a luxury train from Ho Chi Minh to Da Nang? Yes, there are luxury train options for this route. These trains often offer sleeper cabins, air-conditioning, and sometimes even meal services. Vietnam