Guide on Vietnam buses

If you plan to travel around Vietnam, then one of the most convenient and budget-friendly options is taking a Vietnam bus. The bus travel will give you a local view of the country. You can get glimpses of everyday Vietnamese life up close as buses wind through bustling cities and scenic countryside routes. There are buses in every shape and form in Vietnam, from local buses to take you the short hops in the town to those long-distance sleeper buses that cover the length and breadth of the country, they're not only economical but quite the adventure on their own, giving you a chance to meet fellow travellers as well as locals. Whether you are wandering through the crowded city of Ho Chi Minh or headed to the calmness of Sapa's landscapes, the bus system in Vietnam allows one to be free while exploring their country.

Popular bus routes in Vietnam

Vietnam buses are popular as well as quite affordable, whether it is a busy metropolis or a rural village, there is always a route available on a Vietnam bus that will take you to your destination. Whether you need short-distance routes or long-distance routes taken up by the buses, you are sure to never run out of options for your commute. Let’s go through some of the most popular bus routes in Vietnam that will make your trip both convenient and memorable.

1. Hanoi to Sapa

If you are dreaming of misty mountains and terraced rice fields, you should take the overnight bus ride from Hanoi to Sapa. The distance from Hanoi to Sapa is about 6-8 hours by bus, but sleeper options are available, so you can get a few hours of sleep and then wake up to cool, serene landscapes in Sapa. It's a big favourite among hiking enthusiasts and those who love nature.

2. Hanoi to Ha Long Bay

If Ha Long Bay is on your bucket list (which it should be), the bus from Vietnam from Hanoi is a fantastic way to visit this UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can travel for around 4 hours and enjoy the drive through some of the loveliest countryside Vietnam has to offer, arriving finally at this bay, renowned for both its magnificent emerald waters and towering limestone islands.

3. Ho Chi Minh City to Mekong Delta

The Mekong Delta treasure trove, in terms of cultural experience and natural beauty is an attractive place to visit. In addition, buses can be taken from Ho Chi Minh City to the attractions in the Mekong Delta region. Regular buses are available, and it takes around 3-4 hours to get to this water wonderland. This drives through some charming towns and lush green countryside, an ideal way for you to get out of the frenetic energy of a city and experience a slumbering, more traditional part of Vietnam.

4. Ho Chi Minh City to Dalat

Da Lat, with its French colonial architecture and cool, temperate climate, is a popular retreat from the tropical heat of the south. The bus takes around 6-8 hours from the south; most people take an overnight bus to make the best use of their time there. The roads are scenic thorough highland roads, and you'll love how refreshing the air feels as you approach Da Lat.

5. Nha Trang to Mui Ne

If you love beaches and beachy waters, just hop onto the bus heading to Mui Ne from Nha Trang. This is a 5-hour ride, during which you will feast on the coastline views of Vietnam. Beaches and sand dunes wait in the gorgeous Mui Ne for those who simply want to rest but also look for thrills through such sports as kite surfing.

6. Hue to Hoi An

One of the shorter yet truly breathtaking journeys, is a bus ride from Hue to Hoi, marking it among the most popular attractions for travellers wanting to visit and explore the most significant cultural attractions in Vietnam. It should take about 3-4 hours and passes through Hai Van Pass offering breathtaking coastal scenery. As soon as you arrive in Hoi An, which is a favourite riverside town known for its narrow streets brightened by lanterns and ancient architecture, you will feel more than welcome to finally unwind after the long trip.

7. Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh (Cambodia)

Going to Cambodia is also a possibility for those who wish to go beyond Vietnam's borders, as buses from Ho Chi Minh City to Phnom Penh in Cambodia are plentiful. The travel takes about 6 hours and 7 minutes, and crossing is not much of an issue. It is one of the routes of many travellers who would like to go to two different countries in Southeast Asia within one trip.

Booking sites for Vietnam bus

When you’re travelling in Vietnam, booking your Vietnam bus tickets online can save you both time and hassle. Instead of turning up at the bus station hoping to get a ticket, you can secure your seat in advance, ensuring a smoother trip. Here are some reliable booking sites where you can book your Vietnam bus tickets effortlessly:

1. 12Go Asia

One of the most popular sites for booking a Vietnam bus ticket is 12Go Asia, it enables you to compare routes, prices, and schedules. It is ideal for booking long-distance buses between major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and Da Nang. You can even book combined bus and ferry tickets for places like Phu Quoc.

2. Vexere

Vexere is a great on-site service and one of the largest online providers for booking travel in Vietnam buses. It has an enormous variety of options, from luxury to budget buses, along with reviews of each service to make your decision easier.

3. Baolau

Baolau is a comprehensive travel booking website in Vietnam, and aside from bus tickets, they also provide trains and flights. With Baolau the prices are straightforward, so you can easily know which bus line to take and what kind of bus you will ride, sleeper or standard, for instance.

How to book a bus in Vietnam?

Booking a Vietnam bus is a straightforward process, whether you're planning to travel between bustling cities or exploring remote countryside. The beauty of travelling by bus in Vietnam is that it’s incredibly accessible and often the most affordable way to get around. If you’re wondering how to book your bus tickets, here’s a step-by-step guide to make it easy for you.

1. Select the route and type of bus

First things first, where do you want to go? Vietnam has an extensive bus network, from local city buses to long-distance sleeper buses. For short trips between neighbouring towns, you'll find simple, non-air-conditioned buses. To get you from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City or even across borders into Cambodia you'll want a comfortable sleeper or VIP bus.

2. Choose an Online Booking Site

Booking online is the most convenient way to secure your Vietnam bus tickets. A few popular and reliable sites include:

• 12Go Asia: It offers you routes, prices and types of buses.

• Baolau: This gives you access to booking bus, train, and flight tickets.

• Vexere: This is a popular local site of Vietnam offering you reservations for most buses; it also provides a customer's review for each bus company.

These sites help a person narrow down by price, type of bus, and timings, so you can choose the best travelling option for yourself.

3. Bus Timetable Check

Once you have decided on your route and the type of bus, now you have to check out the schedules. Bus companies offer several departures throughout the day, especially on more popular routes such as Hanoi to Ha Long Bay or from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Lat. If you want to avoid accommodation costs and travel during the night, use the sleeper bus. But if you want to see Vietnam's landscapes, day buses are the best way to enjoy the view.

4. Reservations

Once you've decided which bus to take, you can proceed and book on your preferred website. You will be asked to fill in the travel details and payment information. Several sites accept international credit cards, and you'll get an e-ticket or receive confirmation via e-mail after the payment. Always check everything, particularly the departure point, because a big town often has several bus terminals.

5. Arrival at the Bus Station

Even if you have already booked your ticket, come to the bus station at least half an hour before you want to leave. This takes into account seating yourself on your reserved bus and getting checked in by the driver. Some of these bus stations can be pretty hectic, so coming early there won't be any compounded stress. Just be sure to keep a copy of your ticket confirmation handy, whether this is on your phone or printed out; you'll need to present it before boarding your bus.

6. Consider Booking at the Bus Station

If you're more spontaneous or prefer not to book online, you can also book directly at the bus station. Most stations have ticket counters where you can purchase tickets for immediate or future travel. However, during peak tourist seasons, it’s best to book in advance to avoid disappointment.