How to get from
Da Nang to Hanoi

About the ride from Da Nang to Hanoi 

After you've experienced the ancient architecture of Da Nang – that can be traced all the way back to the 4th century – and the natural beauty of Non Nuoc beach, it's time to head to Hanoi. This northbound journey, of around 767 kilometers (476 miles), can be taken in three ways: by bus, plane or train. 

There are around six bus departures throughout the day with two different classes: Local Sleeping and Sleeping. Alternatively, there are numerous train class options, ranging from Economy and Second Class to VIP, Tourist and Luxury. 

Both bus and train rides from Da Nang to Hanoi can incorporate overnight travel and take approximately 16 hours to complete the whole journey. 

Planes are a lot quicker, approximately 1.5 hours in the air. There are three airlines to choose from and Economy ticket prices for two passengers start from US$74.

It's a long trip overland, however, but making the ride overnight saves you money on accommodation and also provides one of those all-important traveling experiences to tell the grandkids about when you're done roaming. 

Out of all the different travel classes, a luxury train cabin is the most popular, and the most expensive. It's also the most comfortable so you can arrive in Hanoi feeling refreshed, relaxed and raring to go! 

However, if you're looking to save money for more important things than sleep, then a bus is the only way to travel. Bus rides can also provide one of the most sociable and memorable experiences that you're going to have in Vietnam. If you're traveling through the night, be prepared with a sleep mask, ear plugs, neck support and plenty of patience!

 

What to see when traveling from Da Nang to Hanoi

What you can see when traveling from Da Nang to Hanoi depends entirely on what time of day your ride leaves. Of course, if you take a sleeper train or sleeper bus, the majority of your ride will be made in the dark and you’ll be able to catch up on some zeds as part of the experience. And you'll also be able to see the sunrise over the suburbs or rural outskirts of Vietnam's capital city. Capturing that surreal orange glow gradually appearing over rice paddies and urban areas is well worth waking up early for.

Parts of the journey north from Da Nang to Hanoi may well include some sections of the South China Sea coastline, especially in the early stages via Hue. As you get closer to Hanoi, traffic flow will increase and more and more buildings will begin to come into view. This is scant preparation for what lies ahead in the capital so try to rest, relax and enjoy the ride before embarking on hectic Hanoi and those scooter-filled streets.

 

How to get from Da Nang to Hanoi

Taking a bus 

Traveling by bus, especially a sleeper bus, is an experience not to be missed in Vietnam. Although conditions can sometimes be a bit cramped and all of those winding roads can be slightly disorientating, it's not going to be something you regret. WiFi access, onboard bathrooms, air conditioning (with complimentary blanket) and reclining seats help to make the ride as comfortable as possible. You'll also get rest stops for food, drinks and comfort breaks, which also offer a good opportunity to chat to fellow travelers and swap stories about your time spent in Vietnam. Another advantage of overnight bus travel from Da Nang to Hanoi is that you save on accommodation costs. Every Vietnamese Dong counts when you're looking to make vacation funds stretch as far as possible.

 

Taking a train 

Taking a train from Da Nang to Hanoi is really easy and the most comfortable way to travel. Trains depart from the central train station from midday to 11.00 pm at night. If you're leaving in the evening, you'll be traveling through the night with sleeper berths coming in all manner of classes, privacy and comfort levels. Although it's a long journey to Hanoi from Da Nang you'll find numerous opportunities to meet local people as well as fellow traveling companions. Practicing your Vietnamese, French and sign language is all part of the fun and can lead to some truly unique experiences that money just can't buy.

 

Taking a Flight 

The quickest means of getting from Da Nang to Hanoi is to fly. There are usually around 20 daily departures and three different airlines to choose from. Time in the air is approximately an hour and 20 minutes but don’t forget to factor in at least an hour prior to boarding. Planes are modern and comfortable. Some airlines will offer snacks or at least the chance to purchase food and drink onboard. Please check with the airline first before bringing onboard your own provisions.