PHONG NHA to HUE — Bus, Train, Bike, Flight? ☀️

Northern Vietnam
10 min readJul 2, 2020

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How do you get from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue
How do you get from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue? You can travel by bus, bus+train or motorbike.

Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue - for a visit of one of the most important site of central Vietnam.

  • Nestled in the heart of central Vietnam, Hue stands as a testament to the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. This charming city, located in Thua Thien province, has captivated travelers for centuries with its serene ambiance and historic significance.
  • Once the illustrious capital of the Nguyen dynasty, Hue holds a storied past that spans several hundred years. As a bastion of Buddhism and a center of education, its influence reverberates through the annals of Vietnamese history. In recognition of its cultural importance, Hue was bestowed the honor of being included on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1993.
  • At the heart of the city lies the magnificent citadel of Kinh Thanh, a sprawling complex steeped in imperial grandeur. Ruled by 13 emperors, this architectural marvel is characterized by three concentric spaces enveloping the iconic Cot Co flagship, dating back to 1809. Within its walls lies the Forbidden Purple City, or Dai Noi, serving as the nucleus of imperial power and prestige.
  • Adding to Hue’s allure is the Thien Mu Pagoda, a sacred site that has stood for centuries as a symbol of spiritual resilience. Built in the 17th century, this revered monument bore witness to the struggles of Buddhist monks against colonial oppression during the tumultuous 20th century.

⭐⭐⭐ You can search and book bus+train tickets from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue online on Baolau or 12go.asia ⭐⭐⭐

(You can also search another route, e.g. Dong Hoi > Hue, Phong Nha > Da Nang, Da Nang > Hoi An…)

  • Along the banks of the Perfume River, imperial tombs dot the landscape, serving as poignant reminders of Hue’s regal past. These majestic mausoleums stand as tributes to the emperors who once ruled this illustrious city.
  • For travelers seeking to embark on their own journey to Hue, numerous transportation options are available. Whether by bus, train, or motorbike, the journey from Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park promises scenic vistas and memorable experiences. Among these, traveling by tourist bus emerges as a popular choice, offering convenience and comfort for adventurers eager to explore the timeless beauty of Hue.
  • In Hue, history and culture converge to create an enchanting tapestry that continues to captivate visitors from near and far. Amidst its tranquil surroundings and majestic landmarks, Hue invites travelers to uncover the secrets of its storied past and embrace the timeless allure of central Vietnam’s cultural gem.
Travel route from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue
Travel route from Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park to Hue, about 215 km by road.

From Phong Nha to Hue you can travel by tourist bus, bus+train or motorbike.

Firstly, for those seeking a convenient and budget-friendly option, traveling by tourist bus stands out as the most straightforward choice. The journey covers approximately 215 km over land, taking around 5 hours to reach Hue from Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Bus tickets typically range from $7 to $13, making it an affordable and efficient mode of transport. Not only does this option save time, but it also eliminates the need for additional transfers to Dong Hoi.

Alternatively, travelers can opt for a combination of bus and train, albeit with a stopover in Dong Hoi. Starting with a bus or taxi ride from Phong Nha to Dong Hoi, which lasts about 1.5 hours and costs approximately $2 per person, passengers then board a train at Dong Hoi Railway Station bound for Hue. The train journey takes roughly 3 to 3.5 hours, with ticket prices ranging from $4 to $13. While this option involves a transfer, it provides an opportunity to experience both bus and train travel, adding variety to the journey.

Lastly, adventurous souls may choose to traverse the distance on a motorbike, but this option is recommended only for experienced riders with proper documentation, including an International Driving Permit (IDP) for Vietnam. While motorbike travel offers flexibility and the chance to explore at your own pace, it comes with inherent risks, particularly on Vietnam’s roads. Nonetheless, from Hue, onward travel to Da Nang, just 100 km away, is easily accessible by bus or train.

Whether by bus, train, or motorbike, the journey from Phong Nha to Hue promises captivating landscapes and memorable experiences, catering to travelers with diverse preferences and priorities.

⭐⭐ Book your hotel or resort in Hue (Discount up to 60%). ⭐⭐

The gate to the ancient town of Hue
One of the gate to the ancient town of Hue.

How do I get from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue?

1. BUS from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue

  • For travelers venturing from the mesmerizing landscapes of Phong Nha-Ke Bang to the historic allure of Hue, hopping on a tourist bus proves to be a swift and cost-effective choice. Spanning approximately 5 hours, this scenic journey offers a seamless transition between two captivating destinations in Vietnam.
  • With bus tickets priced between $7 and $13, passengers can choose between seats or sleeper buses, catering to individual comfort preferences. Renowned bus companies such as The SinhTourist, Hue Tourist, Queen Café, Hey Travel, and Hung Thanh provide reliable services, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.
  • Additionally, for those based in Dong Hoi city, there are convenient tourist buses connecting directly to Hue, offering added flexibility for travelers.
  • Booking your bus e-ticket to Hue is a breeze, with confirmation delivered via email. Simply print or save the ticket to your smartphone, ready to present upon boarding at Phong Nha, allowing for a seamless embarkation process.
  • To ensure a stress-free journey, it’s advisable to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time, providing ample time for check-in and boarding procedures.
  • Whether you’re a budget-conscious traveler or simply seeking a convenient mode of transportation, the tourist bus from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue offers the perfect blend of affordability, comfort, and efficiency, allowing you to embark on your Vietnamese adventure with ease.

⭐⭐⭐ You can search and book bus+train tickets from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue online on Baolau or 12go.asia ⭐⭐⭐

From Phong Nha to Hue by bus
From Phong Nha to Hue you can travel by bus (Hue Tourist bus, photo: Baolau).

2. BUS + TRAIN from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue (via Dong Hoi city)

A) Seamless Transit Options from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Dong Hoi

Nestled approximately 45 km away from Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Dong Hoi serves as a pivotal transportation hub for travelers venturing through central Vietnam. Fortunately, reaching this bustling city from Phong Nha is a straightforward affair, with multiple transit options available.

For budget-conscious travelers, hopping on a local bus presents an affordable and convenient choice. Departing from Phong Nha, these buses whisk passengers to Dong Hoi’s Nam Ly bus station in approximately 1.5 hours. With fares typically priced at just $2 per person, this mode of transport offers a wallet-friendly alternative to private taxis.

Alternatively, those seeking a more personalized journey may opt for a private taxi service to Dong Hoi. While this option comes at a slightly higher cost, it provides the flexibility and comfort of door-to-door transportation, ideal for travelers with specific schedules or preferences.

B) Comfortable Railway Travel from Dong Hoi to Hue

Once in Dong Hoi, embarking on the next leg of your journey to Hue is a breeze with Vietnam’s efficient railway network. Offering a comfortable and economical travel option, trains from Dong Hoi to Hue operate regularly, with approximately 6 departures daily, primarily during the night hours.

The scenic train journey from Dong Hoi to Hue spans approximately 3 hours, allowing passengers to relax and soak in the picturesque vistas along the way. With one-way ticket prices ranging from $4 to $15 per person, train travel remains a budget-friendly choice for explorers.

To board your train to Hue, simply head to Dong Hoi Railway Station, conveniently located in Tiểu Khu 4, Nam Lý. Upon booking, travelers receive their train e-ticket via email, ready to be printed or presented on their mobile devices for hassle-free boarding.

As the train chugs along the tracks, passengers are treated to a delightful journey through the Vietnamese countryside, culminating in the vibrant cityscape of Hue. With its seamless transit options and scenic vistas, the route from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue via Dong Hoi promises a memorable travel experience for adventurers exploring central Vietnam.

From Dong Hoi to Hue by train
From Dong Hoi you can travel by train to Hue.

Tips + Faqs — Travel route from Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park to Hue:

Where to book and buy tickets from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue?

⭐⭐⭐ You can search and book tickets from Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park to Hue online on Baolau or 12go.asia ⭐⭐⭐
(You can also search another route, e.g. Dong Hoi > Da Nang, Phong Nha > Hoi An, Da Nang > Hoi An…)

How long does it take to get from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue?

  • When venturing from the enchanting landscapes of Phong Nha-Ke Bang to the cultural riches of Hue, travelers have several transit options to consider, each offering a unique journey. Traveling by tourist bus directly from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue typically takes around 5 hours, offering a convenient and efficient mode of transportation. Alternatively, opting for a combination of bus and train via Dong Hoi extends the travel time slightly to approximately 6–7 hours.

How much does it cost to get from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue?

  • Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the affordability of these transit options. Traveling by tourist bus from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue typically costs between $7 and $13 per person. Meanwhile, the bus and train combination from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue, via Dong Hoi, is similarly priced, ranging from $8 to $13 per person.

How far is Hue from Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park?

  • The distance between Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and Hue spans approximately 215 km, accessible by various modes of transportation. While traveling by tourist bus or minivan is the most common method, adventurous souls may opt for a motorbike journey, albeit requiring an International Driving Permit (IDP) and considerable driving experience.

Is it possible to travel by plane from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue?

  • Despite the allure of air travel, Phong Nha-Ke Bang lacks its own airport. The closest airport is located in Dong Hoi city, approximately 45 km away. However, flights directly to Hue from Dong Hoi are limited, often involving stopovers in other cities. Given the additional travel time and potential inconvenience, train travel from Dong Hoi to Hue emerges as a more viable option.

Is it possible to travel on motorbike from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue?

  • For those inclined toward motorbike travel, traversing the distance from Phong Nha-Ke Bang to Hue is indeed feasible. However, caution is advised, as navigating Vietnam’s roads requires experience and attentiveness. An IDP is essential for legal motorbike operation in Vietnam, ensuring compliance with local regulations and safety standards.

What is the cheapest way of transport from Phong Nha to Hue?

  • For the most budget-friendly option, bus travel from Phong Nha or train travel from Dong Hoi emerges as the cheapest mode of transportation. With affordable fares and reasonable travel times, these options offer a balance between cost-effectiveness and convenience.

What is the closest airport to Phong Nha-Ke Bang?

  • Travelers seeking air travel options will find Dong Hoi Airport to be the nearest airport to Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. Situated just 45 km away, the airport serves as a gateway to various destinations within Vietnam, including Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

Where you can travel from Hue?

  • From Hue you can travel to various sites in central Vietnam, you can take a bus/train to Da Nang - the 3rd biggest city of Vietnam, or there are also flights or trains to Ho Chi Minh City - the biggest and most important city of southern Vietnam.

What you should visit in Hue?

  • There are various famous and important historical sites and relics. E.g. Hue Citadel, Museum of Royal Fine Arts, Hue’s Mysterious Royal Tombs or Hue’s Towering Thien Mu Pagoda. You should also take a bot tour on Huong river (Perfume river). The standard boat trip will take you to the Thien Mu Pagoda, Hon Chen Temple and mausoleums like Tu Duc, Khai Dinh or Minh Mang. It is the chance to learn more about history and superstition of the country dating back to decades ago.

Where to stay in Hue?

  • Hue is a popular tourist site of central Vietnam and tourists can book cheap hotels or guesthouses but also various luxury hotels or resorts.

⭐⭐⭐ Book your hotel / resort in Hue online (Discount up to 60%).

Huong river (Perfume River), this river crosses capital city of Hue.
Royal Palace in Hue
Royal Palace in Hue — one of the most visited sites.
Khai Din Royal Tomb in Hue
Khai Din Royal Tomb in Hue - Honor Guard Formation on the Forecourt.
Abandoned water park in Hue
Abandoned water park in Hue, it is closed for tourists.

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Northern Vietnam
Northern Vietnam

Written by Northern Vietnam

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