How to get from Hanoi to Hue

Hue, the former imperial capital of Vietnam, is known for its historic citadel, royal tombs, and beautiful Perfume River. Located 670 km (416 miles) south of Hanoi, Hue is accessible by train, flight, bus, or private car. This guide covers all available travel options, including travel times, costs, and tips for convenience. Don’t forget, you can easily book your tickets through our online search form at the top of the page.

Overview of Travel Options

Here are the main ways to get from Hanoi to Hue:

• By Train: The most scenic and comfortable land option.
• By Flight: The fastest way to travel.
• By Bus: The cheapest but least comfortable choice.
• By Private Car: The most flexible but expensive option.

Let’s explore each option in detail to help you choose the best way to travel from Hanoi to Hue.

Timetable

By Train: The Most Scenic and Comfortable Land Option

Taking a train from Hanoi to Hue is one of the most popular options, offering a comfortable and scenic journey along Vietnam’s coastline.

Key Details:

• Departure Station: Hanoi Railway Station (Ga Hà Nội).
• Arrival Station: Hue Railway Station (Ga Huế).
• Duration: 12 to 14 hours, depending on train type.
• Price: 300,000–1,400,000 VND (~$12–$55 USD), depending on class.
• Train Types:
  • SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7 (Faster, express trains).
  • TN1, TN3 (Slower, more stops).
• Seating Options:
  • Soft Seat (Cheapest, basic comfort).
  • Hard Sleeper (6 beds per cabin, budget choice).
  • Soft Sleeper (4 beds per cabin, best for comfort).
• Departure Frequency: Multiple departures daily from morning to evening.

Pros:

• Scenic coastal and countryside views.
• Comfortable overnight travel, saving a night of accommodation.
• Soft sleeper cabins are great for families and groups.

Cons:

• Longer travel time compared to flights.
• Basic facilities in lower-class cabins.

Booking Tip:

For best comfort, book a soft sleeper cabin on an SE1 or SE3 express train. Use our online search form to check train schedules and secure your ticket.

By Flight: The Fastest Way to Travel

Flying from Hanoi to Hue is the quickest option, taking just over an hour.

Key Details:

• Departure Airport: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), Hanoi.
• Arrival Airport: Phu Bai International Airport (HUI), Hue.
• Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes.
• Price: 900,000–2,500,000 VND (~$35–$100 USD), depending on airline and booking time.
• Airlines:
  • Vietnam Airlines (full-service, most reliable).
  • VietJet Air, Bamboo Airways (budget airlines, frequent delays).
• Flight Frequency: Several flights daily from morning to evening.

Airport Transfer from Hue Airport to City Center

• Taxi or Grab: 20–30 minutes, 250,000 VND ($10 USD).
• Airport Shuttle Bus: 30 minutes, 50,000 VND ($2 USD).

Pros:

• Fastest travel time (~1 hour flight, 2 hours total with transfers).
• Convenient for travelers with limited time.

Cons:

• Flights can be delayed due to weather.
• Baggage fees apply on budget airlines.

Booking Tip:

For the best fares, book flights at least 2–4 weeks in advance. Use our online search form to compare flight options and secure your tickets.

By Bus: The Cheapest but Least Comfortable Choice

For budget-conscious travelers, taking a sleeper bus from Hanoi to Hue is the cheapest way to travel, though it takes significantly longer than flying.

Key Details:

• Departure Points:
  • My Dinh Bus Station.
  • Nuoc Ngam Bus Station.
  • Some companies offer hotel pickup in Hanoi Old Quarter.
• Arrival Point: Hue Bus Station or city center drop-off.
• Duration: 12 to 14 hours, depending on traffic and stops.
• Price: 250,000–500,000 VND (~$10–$20 USD).
• Bus Operators:
  • The Sinh Tourist (reliable).
  • Camel Travel.
  • Queen Café VIP Open Bus.
• Bus Types:
  • Standard Sleeper Bus (Cheaper, less space).
  • VIP Sleeper Bus (Reclining seats, blankets, WiFi, snacks).
• Departure Frequency: Multiple daily and overnight departures.

Pros:

• Cheapest travel option (~250,000 VND for basic sleeper buses).
• Overnight buses save on accommodation costs.

Cons:

• Takes as long as the train but less comfortable.
• Can be crowded and noisy.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, choose a VIP sleeper bus. Use our online search form to compare schedules and book your ticket.

By Private Car: The Most Flexible but Expensive Option

For travelers who prefer privacy and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi from Hanoi to Hue is an option, though it’s expensive for solo travelers.

Key Details:

• Route: Hanoi → Hue via National Highway 1A.
• Distance: 670 km (416 miles).
• Duration: 12 to 14 hours, depending on traffic.
• Price: 4,500,000–7,000,000 VND (~$180–$300 USD), depending on car type.
• Taxi & Private Car Services:
  • Grab Car (if available).
  • Private tour operators.

Pros:

• Most flexible option—stop at attractions along the way.
• Comfortable for families and groups.

Cons:

• Very long drive.
• Expensive compared to other options.

Booking Tip:

For lower fares, book your taxi or private car in advance using our online search form.

Final Tips for Traveling from Hanoi to Hue

• Best Option for Speed: Flight (1 hour 15 minutes, from 900,000 VND).
• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~250,000 VND, 12+ hours).
• Best Option for Comfort & Scenic Views: Train (~12 hours, from 300,000 VND, soft sleeper recommended).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Flights, trains, and buses sell out quickly during holidays and festival periods.