Hue to Ho Chi Minh City travel opens the door to an unforgettable journey across Vietnam’s rich cultural and natural landscapes. In this guide, HoaBinh Tourist will help you discover the top 4 travel ways from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City, including travel time, cost reference, and who each option is best for, so you can plan your trip with confidence and enjoy a seamless journey to Vietnam’s most vibrant southern city.
How far is it from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City?
The distance from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City is approximately 1,050 km by road and about 630 km by air. Because the two destinations are located in different regions of Vietnam (Hue in the central part of the country and Ho Chi Minh City in the far south), traveling between them requires a longer journey compared to domestic routes in the north or the center.
Depending on the type of transportation you choose, the travel time can vary significantly:
- By plane: around 1 hour 25 minutes, the fastest and most convenient option
- By train: from 18 to 22 hours, offering a scenic route along the coastline
- By sleeper bus: about 20 to 24 hours, a budget-friendly choice
- By private car: over 18 hours, and not commonly chosen due to the long driving time
Knowing the distance and travel time helps visitors choose a suitable travel option based on their schedule, budget, and travel style. In the next sections, we will explore the top 4 best ways to travel from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City with practical recommendations from HoaBinh Tourist.
How far is it from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City?
How to travel from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City?
Travelers have four main options to move from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City, each offering a different level of comfort, speed, and travel experience.
By plane
Flying from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City is considered the most efficient way to travel. Three major domestic airlines currently operate direct flights between the two cities: Vietnam Airlines, VietJet Air, and Bamboo Airways. These carriers maintain daily schedules, making it easy for visitors to find a suitable flight time regardless of their itinerary.
Flights depart from Phu Bai International Airport (HUI), which is conveniently located about 15 kilometers from the center of Hue. Upon landing, travelers arrive at Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), the country’s busiest airport and the primary gateway to southern Vietnam. The flight itself lasts around one hour and twenty-five minutes, offering a quick and comfortable connection compared to other long-distance travel methods.
Airfare varies depending on the travel period and how early the booking is made. On average, ticket prices range from 1,200,000 VND to 2,500,000 VND. Visitors traveling during holidays or peak seasons may experience higher fares, whereas early reservations often unlock better deals.
Travelers can book tickets directly through airline websites or through trusted travel agencies. HoaBinh Airlines (member of HoaBinh Group – HoaBinh Tourist) also supports flight booking services for those who prefer a convenient, well-handled arrangement.
Travel from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City by plane
By train
The train journey from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City is ideal for travelers who enjoy slow travel and want to admire Vietnam’s changing landscapes. Vietnam Railways operates several daily trains on the North-South Reunification line, with popular choices such as SE1, SE3, SE5, and SE7.
These trains depart from Hue Railway Station and arrive at Saigon Railway Station in District 3, a central location that makes it easy for travelers to continue their journey within the city.
Train frequency remains stable throughout the year, giving travelers multiple departure times to choose from. Travel time ranges between eighteen and twenty-two hours, depending on the train selected.
Although the journey is long, many visitors appreciate the opportunity to spend a night on the train, enjoy coastal scenery, and experience an authentic part of Vietnam’s travel culture.
Ticket prices differ according to seat type and comfort level. Hard seats are the most economical option, while soft seats and sleeper cabins offer greater comfort, especially for long-distance travel.
Sleeper compartments, available in four-berth and six-berth configurations, typically cost between 1,100,000 and 1,600,000 VND. This option suits travelers who prefer a relaxed pace, value the scenic route, or want to avoid the higher cost of air travel.
The train journey from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City is ideal for travelers
By bus
Sleeper buses provide another affordable way to travel from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City. Several well-known companies operate this route, including Hoang Long, Tuan Hanh, Hanh Café, Phuong Trang (FUTA), and TheSinhTourist. Some services run directly, while others require a transfer, but all maintain relatively consistent schedules throughout the day.
The bus journey usually lasts between twenty and twenty-four hours, depending on factors such as rest stops, traffic, and the specific route chosen. Most buses follow National Highway 1A, passing through major coastal cities such as Da Nang, Quy Nhon, Nha Trang, and Phan Rang before eventually reaching Ho Chi Minh City.
This route allows travelers to observe everyday life along Vietnam’s southern coastline, although the long duration may be challenging for some passengers.
Ticket prices are generally budget-friendly, ranging from 600,000 to 900,000 VND. Modern sleeper buses are equipped with reclining seats, air conditioning, and blankets, making them suitable for overnight travel. This option is especially appealing to backpackers, students, and visitors looking for a cost-effective alternative to flying or taking the train.
By private vehicle
Traveling from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City by private vehicle offers the greatest flexibility. The most direct route covers about 1,050 kilometers along National Highway 1A. Some travelers choose to combine parts of this route with sections of the Ho Chi Minh Road, which passes through quieter mountainous areas and offers a more scenic driving experience.
Driving without long stops takes roughly eighteen to twenty hours. However, most travelers prefer breaking the journey into two or three days to enjoy stopovers in Da Nang, Hoi An, Quy Nhon, or Nha Trang.
This allows them to explore beaches, taste regional cuisine, and visit cultural sites along the way. The journey becomes not just a transfer between two cities but a multi-day exploration of Vietnam’s central and southern regions.
A self-drive trip is best suited for experienced drivers because of the long distance and changing road conditions. However, for those who enjoy freedom, flexibility, and spontaneous exploration, traveling by private vehicle can be an enriching part of the overall adventure.
Explore Ho Chi Minh City with HoaBinh Tourist
HoaBinh Tourist is ready to elevate the experience with a wide range of guided Ho Chi Minh City tours and curated travel programs.
Guests can explore iconic attractions such as the Independence Palace, Ben Thanh Market, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Saigon Central Post Office, or venture beyond the city with day trips to the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Mekong Delta.
Each tour is designed to highlight the energy, culture, and heritage of southern Vietnam while ensuring comfortable transportation and knowledgeable local guides.
HoaBinh Tourist provides well-planned itineraries that cater to different travel styles, from history enthusiasts to food lovers and first-time visitors. With professional service and a deep understanding of Vietnam’s destinations, we help travelers enjoy a memorable and seamless journey from the moment they arrive.
Explore Ho Chi Minh City with HoaBinh Tourist
Which transport option is best to get Ho Chi Minh city from Hue?
Choosing the best way to travel from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City depends entirely on your priorities as a visitor.
| Transport Option | Pros. | Cons. | Best for |
| Plane | Fastest travel time; multiple daily flights; comfortable and convenient | Higher cost during peak seasons; limited views; need to travel to/from airports | Travelers with limited time, visitors who prioritize comfort |
| Train | Scenic coastline views; overnight cabins available; stable pricing | Long travel time (18–22 hrs); limited flexibility; not ideal for tight schedules | Slow-travel lovers, those who enjoy the experience as part of the journey |
| Bus | Lowest cost; many operators; frequent departures | Very long journey (20–24 hrs); comfort varies; can be tiring for some travelers | Budget travelers; backpackers |
| Private Vehicle | Full flexibility; can explore multiple destinations along the route; ideal for multi-day trips | Requires strong driving skills; long distance; can be tiring or costly if hiring a driver | Road-trip enthusiasts, families, or groups wanting a personalized route |
Choosing how to travel from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City depends on what you value most, whether it’s speed, budget, comfort, or the chance to enjoy Vietnam’s landscapes along the way. Each option offers a different experience, helping every traveler find a journey that truly fits their style.
For a smooth, well-planned trip and memorable tours in Ho Chi Minh City, HoaBinh Tourist is ready to support you with reliable services, expert guidance, and flexible travel packages. Contact HoaBinh Tourist for assistance and bookings: (+84) 939 311 911 – (+84) 913 311 911.
