Navigating Vietnam has never been easier. Gone are the days of haggling at chaotic bus stations; today, Vietnam’s transport network is highly digitized. Whether you are traversing the length of the country by train or hopping between cities on a sleeper bus, you can book almost everything directly from your smartphone.
Here is a comprehensive, step-by-step guide on how to book public transportation as an international tourist in Vietnam.
Table of contents
Sleeper Buses and Limousine Vans (The Most Flexible)
Buses are the backbone of Vietnamese travel. “Sleeper buses” (with fully reclining beds) are perfect for long overnight journeys, while “Limousine vans” (luxury 9-to-11-seater transit vans) are the most comfortable way to travel shorter distances (e.g., Hanoi to Sapa, or Ho Chi Minh City to Mui Ne).
- Vexere: This is the “Skyscanner for buses” in Vietnam. It is the most foreigner-friendly platform, available in English, and accepts international credit cards. You can compare prices, read reviews, and even pick your exact seat or bed.
- Link: Vexere Website | Available on iOS & Android
- FUTA Buslines (Phương Trang): The largest and most reliable bus operator in the Southern and Central regions. You can book directly through their app. They are easily recognizable by their bright orange buses.
- Link: FUTA Bus Website | Available on iOS & Android
Trains (The Scenic Route)
The “Reunification Express” runs the entire length of the country from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. Taking the train is highly recommended for safety, comfort, and breathtaking views (especially the Hai Van Pass between Hue and Da Nang).
- Vietnam Railways (Official Website): You can check official schedules and book directly here. Note: Their payment gateway can sometimes be temperamental with foreign credit cards.
- Link: dsvn.vn
Domestic Flights (The Time Saver)
If you are short on time, flying between major hubs (Hanoi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City) is incredibly affordable.
- Traveloka: The most popular online travel agent in Southeast Asia. It is highly recommended for comparing domestic flights and often offers better UI and discounts than booking directly.
- Direct Airlines: You can always book directly to easily manage baggage add-ons.
- Vietnam Airlines (Full-service, includes checked baggage)
- Vietjet Air (Budget airline, strict on baggage limits)
- Bamboo Airways (Hybrid, good service)
Speedboats and Ferries (Island Hopping)
If your itinerary includes tropical escapes like Phu Quoc, Con Dao, or Cat Ba Island, you will need a ferry or speedboat ticket.
- Superdong & Phu Quoc Express: These are the two major operators for southern islands. You can book directly on their websites.
- Links: Superdong | Phu Quoc Express
- Alternatively, you can easily book ferry tickets alongside your trains and buses using:…
Getting Around the City
Forget hailing random taxis on the street—ride-hailing apps are the safest, cheapest, and most reliable way to navigate cities, guaranteeing no language barrier or price haggling.
- Grab: The absolute must-have app in Southeast Asia. Use it for cars, motorbikes (GrabBike), and food delivery. Link your credit card for seamless, cashless rides.
- Link: Grab (Download before you arrive)
- Green SM: A fantastic, eco-friendly alternative using exclusively VinFast electric vehicles. The cars are brand new, whisper-quiet, and the drivers offer premium service.
- Link: Green SM
- City Buses (BusMap): If you want to travel like a true local for pennies, city buses are an option. Use the BusMap app to figure out the complex routes.
- Link: BusMap
- Metro Systems: Hanoi currently operates two elevated metro lines (Cat Linh – Ha Dong and Nhon – Hanoi Station). Tickets are purchased with cash (VND) directly at the automated machines or ticketing booths inside the stations.
💡 Essential Pro-Tips
- Download apps before you arrive: Set up accounts for Grab and Vexere while you still have your home country’s SIM card to easily receive SMS verification codes.
- Card vs. Cash: While Grab, Traveloka, and Vexere take international Visa/Mastercard smoothly, always carry small denominations of Vietnamese Dong (VND 10,000 – 50,000 notes) for city buses, small ferries, and tipping.
- Holidays: If you are traveling during Tết (Vietnamese Lunar New Year, usually late Jan/early Feb) or National Holidays (April 30th – May 1st), book weeks in advance. Trains and buses sell out completely.