How to get from Hue to Phong Nha

Phong Nha, famous for its stunning limestone caves, lush national park, and adventurous outdoor activities, is a must-visit destination in Central Vietnam. Located 210 km (130 miles) northwest of Hue, Phong Nha is accessible by bus, private car, train, or motorbike. 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 Hue to Phong Nha:

• By Bus: The cheapest and most convenient option.
• By Private Car or Taxi: The fastest and most comfortable choice.
• By Train + Transfer: A scenic journey requiring a transfer from Dong Hoi.
• By Motorbike: The most adventurous and scenic route.

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

Timetable

By Bus: The Cheapest and Most Convenient Option

Taking a direct bus from Hue to Phong Nha is the most affordable and convenient way to travel, with multiple departures throughout the day.

Key Details:

• Departure Point: Hue City Center (Near Backpacker Area).
• Arrival Point: Phong Nha Town (Near Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park).
• Duration: 4 to 5 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
• Price: 250,000–400,000 VND (~$10–$18 USD).
• Bus Operators:
  • Sinh Tourist (Popular with travelers).
  • Hung Thanh Bus (Budget option).
  • Phong Nha Express (Comfortable and reliable).
• Bus Types:
  • Sleeper Bus (Reclining seats, A/C, blankets).
  • VIP Minivan (Fewer seats, more legroom, A/C).
• Departure Frequency: 2–3 daily departures (morning and afternoon).
• Arrival in Phong Nha: Near the town center and hostels.

Pros:

• Cheapest travel option (~250,000 VND for standard buses).
• Direct travel without transfers.
• Multiple departures throughout the day.
• Comfortable seating with A/C.

Cons:

• Traffic delays are possible.
• Basic seating on budget buses.
• Limited luggage space on minivans.

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, choose a VIP Minivan or Sleeper Bus with reclining seats. Use our online search form to check bus schedules and book your ticket.

By Private Car or Taxi: The Fastest and Most Comfortable Choice

For travelers who prefer privacy, comfort, and flexibility, hiring a private car or taxi from Hue to Phong Nha is the most convenient choice.

Key Details:

• Departure Point: Pickup from your hotel in Hue.
• Arrival Point: Drop-off at your hotel in Phong Nha.
• Duration: 3.5 to 4.5 hours, depending on traffic and rest stops.
• Price: 3,000,000–4,500,000 VND (~$130–$190 USD), depending on car type and operator.
• Taxi & Private Car Services:
  • Local taxi companies and private drivers.
  • Hotel-arranged private transfers.
• Car Types:
  • Sedan (Up to 3 passengers, more affordable).
  • SUV or Van (Up to 6 passengers, more spacious).

Recommended Stops Along the Way:

• Vinh Moc Tunnels – Historical underground tunnels from the Vietnam War.
• Ben Hai River – The former demilitarized zone (DMZ) separating North and South Vietnam.
• Hien Luong Bridge – Historical landmark at the DMZ.

Pros:

• Fastest travel option (~3.5 hours).
• Door-to-door service, no need for transfers.
• Comfortable for families and groups.
• Flexible travel schedule and scenic stops along the way.

Cons:

• More expensive than buses and trains.
• Traffic delays are possible.

Booking Tip:

For the best rates, book your private car in advance using our online search form.

By Train + Transfer: A Scenic Journey Requiring a Transfer

For travelers who prefer scenic views and a relaxed journey, taking a train from Hue to Dong Hoi followed by a transfer to Phong Nha is an option.

Key Details:

• Route: Hue → Dong Hoi (Train) → Phong Nha (Transfer).
• Duration:
  • Train from Hue to Dong Hoi: 3.5 to 4 hours.
  • Transfer from Dong Hoi to Phong Nha: 1 to 1.5 hours.
• Price:
  • Train: 150,000–400,000 VND (~$6–$18 USD), depending on class.
  • Transfer: 300,000–600,000 VND (~$12–$25 USD) by taxi or shuttle.
• Train Types:
  • Reunification Express (Comfortable and scenic).
• Seating Options:
  • Soft Seat (A/C, reclining seats, comfortable).
  • Hard Seat (Cheaper, basic seating, less comfortable).
  • Soft Sleeper (4-berth cabin, best for comfort).
  • Hard Sleeper (6-berth cabin, budget-friendly, less space).
• Transfer Options in Dong Hoi:
  • Private Taxi (Fastest and most convenient).
  • Shuttle Bus (Budget-friendly, scheduled departures).

Pros:

• Scenic views of Vietnam’s countryside.
• Comfortable seating with A/C on the train.
• Affordable prices for a long journey.

Cons:

• Requires a transfer in Dong Hoi.
• Takes longer than direct buses or private cars (~5+ hours total).

Booking Tip:

For better comfort, book a Soft Seat or Soft Sleeper on the train. Use our online search form to check train schedules and book your ticket.

Final Tips for Traveling from Hue to Phong Nha

• Best Option for Budget Travelers: Bus (~250,000 VND, 4+ hours).
• Best Option for Speed & Comfort: Private Car (~3,000,000 VND, 3.5+ hours).
• Best Option for Scenic Views: Train + Transfer (~5+ hours total).
• Book Early for Peak Season: Buses, private cars, and trains sell out quickly during high season (March–August).
• Luggage Tip: Pack light if taking the bus or train due to limited space.