Quang Binh is a coastal province along the North Central Coast of Vietnam, famed for its breathtaking and pristine attractions like Phong Nha Cave, Nhat Le Beach, and Son Doong Cave. Choosing the right transportation is crucial for a full exploration of Quang Binh’s beauty. Below are several ways to get to Quang Binh and some practical tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey.
Flights to Quang Binh
Dong Hoi Airport is the only airport in Quang Binh, located about 7 km from Dong Hoi city center. Several airlines, including Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways, operate flights to Quang Binh. Flying is the fastest and most convenient way to reach Quang Binh from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City.
- From Hanoi: Flights with Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, or Bamboo Airways take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
- From Ho Chi Minh City: Flights with the same airlines take around 1 hour and 50 minutes.
After landing at Dong Hoi Airport, travelers can choose between the following transport options to reach the city center or main tourist destinations:
- Taxi: The fastest and most convenient option, costing approximately 100,000–150,000 VND per trip.
- Bus: A budget-friendly alternative, with fares of around 20,000 VND per trip.
Trains to Quang Binh
Dong Hoi Railway Station, located about 2 km from the city center, is the main train station in Quang Binh. Numerous trains connect Dong Hoi with cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, Da Nang, Nha Trang, and Quy Nhon. Tickets can be purchased online at dsvn.vn or at train stations. Prices range from 200,000 to 700,000 VND per person per trip, depending on seating type and departure time.
- From Hanoi: Trains SE1, SE3, SE5, SE7, and SE19 take about 9 hours.
- From Ho Chi Minh City: Trains SE2, SE4, SE6, and SE8 take approximately 25 hours. Since this is a long journey, it’s recommended to book a sleeper berth for more comfort and energy upon arrival.
- From Hue: Trains SE2, SE4, SE6, SE8, and SE20 take around 3 hours.
Booking via hotline:
- 1900 1520: Vietnam Railway Corporation ticket hotline
- 1900 7176: Saigon Railway Transport Company ticket hotline
Information required for booking:
- Departure and destination stations, travel dates and times
- Seat or sleeper preferences
- Number of tickets
- Passenger details
Tips for train travel:
- Book tickets early, especially during holidays, to avoid sold-out situations.
- Carry valid identification for boarding.
- Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before departure to complete boarding procedures.
Buses to Quang Binh
Dong Hoi Bus Station is the largest bus terminal in Quang Binh Province. It is located approximately 1 km from the city center of Dong Hoi. Currently, many bus operators run routes connecting Quang Binh with nearby cities, including:
From Hanoi:
Travelers can choose from the following bus operators:
- Hung Long: 091 407 77 79
- Thuan Hien: 088 834 66 88
From Hue:
Travelers can choose from the following bus operators:
- Camel Travel: 0234 382 9456 – 091 514 4399
- Hoang Long: 1900 988 920
- Minh Map: 0234 385 5855
- Bao Yen: 0234 388 8555
From Ha Long:
Travelers can choose from the following bus operator:
- Van Luc Tung Bus: 091 536 3377
From Da Nang/Hoi An:
Travelers can choose from the following bus operators:
- Camel Travel: 0235 391 7703 – 0236 381 8366
- Tu Tac: 091 349 6121
- Hung Thanh: 0234 383 1417
- Hanh Luyen: 091 217 3173
Driving to Quang Binh
Quang Binh, known for its many famous landmarks, attracts numerous visitors. One popular way to get to Quang Binh is by driving. Below is a guide on how to drive to Quang Binh from major cities:
From Hanoi:
The distance from Hanoi to Quang Binh is approximately 500–550 km, requiring about 8–9 hours of driving. You can choose from three main routes:
- Route 1: 503 km via QL1A.
- Route 2: 524 km via Hanoi–Ninh Binh Expressway/CT01 and QL1A.
- Route 3: 536 km via Ho Chi Minh Road and QL1A.
From Hue:
Two suggested routes:
- Via QL1A, approximately 168 km, taking about 3 hours.
- Via QL1A and Ho Chi Minh Road, approximately 176 km, taking about 3 hours and 15 minutes.
From Da Nang:
From Da Nang city center, drive over Hai Van Pass through Thua Thien Hue Province to Quang Tri Province. Continue to Quang Binh via QL1A or Ho Chi Minh Road. The distance is approximately 235 km, taking around 3 hours and 45 minutes.
From Ho Chi Minh City:
Quang Binh is about 1,420 km from Ho Chi Minh City, with driving time ranging from 24–26 hours, depending on speed and traffic.
Suggested route:
- Take QL1A through provinces such as Binh Duong, Binh Phuoc, Tay Ninh, Dong Nai, Binh Thuan, Ninh Thuan, Khanh Hoa, Phu Yen, Binh Dinh, Quang Ngai, and Quang Nam.
- From Tam Ky, continue on QL1A through Quang Ngai, Quang Tri, and Hue to Dong Hoi, Quang Binh.
Note: Driving times may vary due to traffic and weather conditions. Always prioritize safety by ensuring proper rest before embarking on long drives.
International flights to Quang Binh
Currently, there are no direct international flights to Dong Hoi Airport. To reach Quang Binh from abroad, fly to one of Vietnam’s international airports, such as Noi Bai in Hanoi, Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City, or Da Nang International Airport. From there, continue to Dong Hoi by domestic flight, train, or bus. Upon arrival, you can take a taxi, or bus, or rent a car to reach nearby tourist destinations.
Important tips
- Check weather conditions and necessary information beforehand: Quang Binh has a tropical monsoon climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The rainy season lasts from September to March, and the dry season runs from April to August. Check the weather to plan accordingly.
- Carry essential identification documents (ID card, passport, etc.): Required for hotel check-ins, vehicle rentals, and purchasing tickets for attractions.
- Pack personal items such as raincoats, water, sunscreen, etc.: Especially important when traveling by personal vehicle to ensure your health and comfort.
These travel options and tips aim to help you choose the most suitable transportation for your journey. With the above information, we hope you have a fun and memorable trip to Quang Binh!
