About the journey from Hanoi to Hue
Hanoi's enormous metropolis and friendly atmosphere make it one of the must-visit cities in Vietnam. But once you've seen the sights and sounds, it's time to experience some of the other Vietnamese gems — like Hue!
Hue is a spectacular coastal city in central Vietnam. Located between Hanoi and Hoi An, it's a great stopover place to break up the journey. However, take some time to get to know this great spot. With temples, historic landmarks, and lots of delicious food, there's something to impress all visitors.
Before packing your bags, ensure you know how to get from Hanoi to Hue without stress.
These destinations are separated by 661 km (410 miles), and the journey time can take anywhere from 1 hour and 15 minutes to 14 hours. Your main transport options include bus, flight, and train.
There's lots to consider, but it doesn't have to be confusing. Keep reading to get expert advice. You'll be a pro in minutes.
Top places to see in Hue
From learning about Vietnamese Dynasties to lakeside views, Hue has it all. Here are some notable destinations you should make time for:
Ho Thuy Thien Lake and the abandoned waterpark
Hue Night Market by Perfume River
The Imperial City
Tu Hieu Pagoda
The Tomb of Khai Dinh
The Temple of Literature
Linh Mu Pagoda
You should make time to wander the city alongside these iconic sites. You can easily spend three days in Hue. With vibrant markets, mouth-watering restaurants, and a vibrant culture, there's lots to uncover.
Should you stay in Hue or Hoi An?
Hue and Hoi An are both popular spots in central Vietnam, but you might not know which to choose if you're on a short schedule.
Hue is great for exploring Vietnamese history and cultural landmarks. Hoi An provides stunning views and is a more well-known destination. So, it depends on what you want to see.
How to get from Hanoi to Hue
The main ways to get from Hanoi to Hue include bus, flight, and train. There's a wide range of prices and journey times, so consider your needs before booking.
By bus
Buses are the cheapest way to get from Hanoi to Hue but take the longest.
The cheapest tickets start at $12 but can go up to $29 depending on the amenities/comfort level of the bus. Most journeys take between 12 and 14 hours. This isn't the best route if you're on a tight timetable, but it's great for those who want to save money.
Amenities on most buses include A/C, large luggage storage, toilet stops, chargers, blankets, and TVs. Some also offer reclining seats, WCs, and extra legroom.
While many buses have WCs, they are not guaranteed on all trips. If there is no bathroom onboard, the bus driver will make stops.
The bus pick-up and drop-off locations are usually large bus stations or travel offices in central Hanoi and Hue. Notable points include Sapa Discovery Travel Hanoi Office, Tran Quang Khai Street, and Hue Office.
Pro tip: Many of these buses run overnight. Booking an overnight bus can save you money as you don't pay a hostel or hotel fee. Bring your earplugs and sleeping mask!
By flight
Flights from Hanoi to Hue are the fastest way to travel. The journey takes 1 hour and 15 minutes but costs significantly more than buses or trains, at $102 per person.
Economy Flights provide WC access, A/C, and carry-on luggage. Checking luggage will incur an extra fee.
Snacks and drinks are sometimes available on board, but you should grab some food in the airport before you board if you want to guarantee food for the flight.
By train
Trains from Hanoi to Hue also take 12 to 14 hours but can provide a more comfortable experience, especially if you're looking for a sleeper cabin.
However, these cost a little more, with the cheapest option being around $27 per person for standard seats in the regular train carriage. Prices can go up to $143 for a private sleeper cabin for up to four travelers. This might not be the best option if you're on a strict budget, but the experience of traveling on a train is priceless.
Here's a quick lowdown on each train class:
Second Class Seat Train — Second Class Seat Trains don't offer the sleeper cabin experience but can be good for saving money. They include individual seats, A/C, and WC access.
Second Class Sleeper Train — These trains give you the classic sleeper experience. However, you don't get a private cabin. A/C, blankets, and WCs are available in this class.
First Class Sleeper Train — First Class Sleeper Trains provide soft berths rather than the hard ones in second class. You also receive blankets, A/C, and WC access.
Shared Cabin For 4 Train — As the name suggests, a Shared Cabin For 4 Train ticket gives you a private sleeper cabin with four spaces. Snacks and drinks are provided alongside A/C and WC access.
Shared Deluxe Cabin For 4 Train — The Shared Deluxe Cabin For 4 Train ticket gives you a private cabin with WiFi, A/C, chargers, snacks and drinks, blankets and pillows, English-speaking staff, and WC access.
VIP or Premium Class Train — Premium Class Train tickets provide W/C, WiFi, and comfortable seating.
If you want to guarantee a sleeper-style bed space, make sure you book a "Sleeper" ticket.
About the ride from Hanoi to Hue
The ride from Hanoi to Hue is a longer one, with the average journey by bus or train taking between 12 to 14 hours. Flights take 1 hour and 15 minutes.
This trek takes you south from Hanoi to Hue.
While the route follows the South China Sea coastline, the views are limited. Most buses stay on the highway, and both buses and trains tend to travel at night. You might see some cool aerial views via plane, though!
Hanoi to Hue is safe for all travelers, including solo-ers, women, and beginners.
The best time to travel from Hanoi to Hue
The best time to travel from Hanoi to Hue is from February to August. In these months, the weather sits around 29°C to 34°C (84°F to 93°F) and is dry. Ideal for sightseeing without getting wet.
From September to January, there's warm weather but a higher chance of rain. October to December are the wettest months, with 400 to 580 mm falling per month. Not great if you want to spend time outside.
Where to visit after Hue?
Once you've admired Hue's coastal bliss, why not continue to Hoi An?
Only around 129 km (80 miles) south of Hue, Hoi An boasts a well-preserved ancient town, temples, French colonial buildings, and white sand beaches.
Hue to Hoi An takes three to five hours via bus.