Hanoi to Hue

About the ride from Hanoi to Hue

After the manic mayhem of Hanoi, you might be craving somewhere a little more serene. Hue is exactly that. With its location on the beautifully-named Perfume River and laid-back charm, it’s the perfect place to unwind after spending some time in Vietnam’s chaotic capital.

For the 670km (416 mile) journey to Hue from Hanoi, you have two options: 

• Bus from Hanoi to Hue - typically around 13 hours
• Train from Hanoi to Hue - typically around 13.5 hours

All buses to Hue from Hanoi are overnight journeys. 

Most trains to Hue from Hanoi are overnight journeys, but a few take place during the day.

Though both options are great for the right traveller, it’s usually better to take the bus to Hue from Hanoi. Buses are cheaper (typically substantially cheaper!) than trains, making them a much better choice for budget travel. And because they all take place during the night, they’re an excellent way to save on accommodation costs.

That said, many travelers enjoy the novelty of taking the train in Southeast Asia, where most journeys are taken by bus. And train journeys are often a little more comfortable than taking the bus.

 

What to see when traveling from Hanoi to Hue

That depends upon the time you travel. If your journey is largely at night-time, you won’t see very much!

If you travel during daylight hours, you’ll notice Hanoi’s sprawling cityscapes make way to smaller settlements and gorgeous greenery. You’ll pass through small towns and verdant flatlands. Along the way, you’ll see animals, small roadside stores and endless countryside rolling past. 

If you’re traveling by bus, don’t be surprised if your ride has to stop for dogs, cows, chickens or any other type of animal invader. In Vietnam, it’s a regular occurrence. 

 

How to get from Hanoi to Hue

Taking a bus 

Buses are an excellent and easy way to get from Hanoi to Hue. They’re very affordable and surprisingly comfortable, especially given how cheap they are. 

All buses are overnight journeys, so you will arrive in Hue during the morning, giving you plenty of time to explore Hue’s exciting attractions. An overnight bus allows you to arrive in Hue refreshed and ready to have fun - and saves you on accommodation costs for the night!

All buses have air conditioning and semi-reclinable seats. Though these seats don’t go fully flat, they’re definitely horizontal enough for a good night’s sleep. 

Some buses offer TVs, WiFi, blankets, sockets, onboard toilets and English-speaking staff, but you should check with each individual provider for the perks provided on the journey.

The buses without onboard toilets make toilet stops along the way.

Taking a train

Taking a train to Hue from Hanoi can be a very fun experience. Most tourists in Southeast Asia get around exclusively by bus. And for most journeys, that’s your best option. 

But while a train is on offer, it can make for an unusual and exciting alternative.

Trains also offer you the chance of a very luxurious journey. After many basic bus trips, the idea of a little decadence and indulgence might be a welcome one. If that’s the case, you’ll absolutely love taking the train.

If you take a train, you have many different options. Your most affordable and simple option is a Second Class Train, a basic affair with soft upright seats. 

The most luxurious option is a VIP train. Though very expensive, it’s an unforgettable experience. If you don’t mind spending a lot of money to receive the ultimate in indulgence, you’ll get outrageously comfortable beds, plush leather interiors and brilliant service. Other freebies include beer, pastries, breakfast and wet towels.

Other train options include varying levels of luxury and comfort.

If comfort is your priority, trains have the edge over bus journeys. The beds are flatter and more comfortable, the vehicle is much more spacious, the ride is smoother and there’s lots of space to walk around and stretch your legs.

Some trains offer food, drinks, WiFi, TVs, charging sockets and English-speaking staff. You should check with individual providers to check the individual perks for each journey. 

All trains have onboard toilets.

While most trains from Hanoi to Hue depart in the afternoon and arrive in the early hours of the morning, a few are daytime journeys. Both options are popular, but the former can allow you to save both time and money.