Nghe An Travel Guide: How to Get to Vietnam’s Cultural and Coastal Gem

A Tapestry of Culture, History, and Coastal Beauty

Nghe An, Vietnam’s largest province at 16,470 km², lies 290 km south of Hanoi and 950 km north of Ho Chi Minh City in the North-Central region. Its hub, Vinh Ward, welcomes over 70,000 tourists annually to explore UNESCO-recognized Kim Lien Village (Ho Chi Minh’s birthplace), biodiverse Pu Mat National Park, and the 82 km coastline featuring Cua Lo Beach. With travel costs ranging from $8–$180 (200,000–4,500,000 VND) round-trip, Nghe An is a budget-friendly destination for culture seekers, nature enthusiasts, and eco-conscious travelers.

Nghe An’s tropical climate (dry season: November–April, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F; rainy season: May–October, 24–36°C or 75.2–96.8°F) supports diverse experiences, enhanced by sustainable initiatives like electric vehicle tours and community-led homestays. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours ensure a seamless, responsible journey. Book via links in this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com for an unforgettable adventure.

Administrative Update

As of July 1, 2025, Vietnam’s administrative reform reorganized Nghe An’s districts into wards and communes. Vinh City is now Vinh Ward, and Cua Lo Town is Cua Lo Ward. Use “Vinh Ward, Nghe An” or “Nghe An Province” for precise navigation.

With over 17 years of expertise in sustainable tourism across Southeast Asia, Legend Travel Group offers eco-friendly tours to Nghe An, blending cultural immersion with environmental care. Our tours use electric vehicles, support local communities, and feature English-speaking guides sharing insights into Nghe An’s heritage and ecosystems. Aligning with Vietnam’s green tourism goals, we provide transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our eco-tours via links on this page for a responsible journey.

Nghe An, with Vinh Ward as its hub, is accessible via flights, trains, buses, private cars, or motorbikes from major cities like Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, and Da Nang. Below are the most reliable, eco-friendly, and budget-friendly options to reach Vinh Ward, with updated 2025 pricing and tips for a seamless trip. Note: Vinh Airport will be closed for renovations from July 1 to December 31, 2025, so plan alternative transport during this period.

From Hanoi to Vinh Ward (290 km, 5–7 hours)

• By Flight (Fastest, Unavailable July–December 2025):

  • Overview: Flights from Hanoi’s Noi Bai International Airport to Vinh Airport (10 km from Vinh Ward) take 1 hour, followed by a 15-minute taxi ride to the city center. Operated by Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways.

  • Cost (Round-Trip): $90–$150 (2,250,000–3,750,000 VND), including taxi ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND each way).

  • Duration: 1 hour flight + 15 minutes taxi (total ~1.5 hours).

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Choose airlines with fuel-efficient fleets; pair with Xanh SM electric taxis for lower emissions.

  • How to Book: Use airline apps or Legend Travel Group’s tour packages. Book 2–4 weeks ahead for deals, especially during festivals (January–March).

  • Pros: Fastest; comfortable for short trips.

  • Cons: Airport closure July–December 2025; higher cost; weather-dependent.

  • Tip: Check flight status due to occasional delays; included in Nghe An Cultural Tour ($70–$100) when available.

• By Train (Scenic and Sustainable):

  • Overview: The Reunification Express, operated by Vietnam Railways, runs daily from Hanoi Station (120 Lê Duẩn, Hoàn Kiếm) to Vinh Station in Vinh Ward’s center. Options include soft seats, hard sleepers (6 berths), or soft sleepers (4 berths) for overnight comfort, passing lush landscapes.

  • Cost (Round-Trip): $20–$60 (500,000–1,500,000 VND); soft seat: $20–$30; soft sleeper: $40–$60.

  • Duration: 5.5–7 hours (SE trains faster; TN trains slower).

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Trains have a lower carbon footprint; book soft sleepers for comfort and sustainability.

  • How to Book: Purchase via Vietnam Railways’ website, Baolau, 12go.asia, or Legend Travel Group. Book 1–2 weeks ahead, especially for sleepers during Lunar New Year.

  • Pros: Scenic; affordable; central station locations.

  • Cons: Slower than flights; sleepers sell out during peak seasons.

  • Tip: Bring snacks and a neck pillow; included in Nghe An Nature Tour ($80–$120).

• By Bus or Coach (Budget-Friendly):

  • Overview: Buses depart from Hanoi’s My Dinh, Giap Bat, or Nuoc Ngam stations to Vinh Ward, offering regular, sleeper, or VIP limousine options (9–12 seats). Operators like Hoang Long, Futabus, and TheSinh Tourist provide reliable services with air-conditioning and reclining seats.

  • Cost (Round-Trip): $16–$30 (400,000–750,000 VND); regular buses: $16–$20; VIP limousines: $25–$30.

  • Duration: 6–7 hours, with restroom and meal stops.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Choose modern buses with fuel-efficient engines; combine with walking tours in Vinh to reduce emissions.

  • How to Book: Book via Baolau, 12go.asia, or bus station counters. Legend Travel Group offers private tour buses for groups. Book 1–2 days ahead, or 2 weeks for holidays.

  • Pros: Cheapest option; frequent departures; comfortable VIP options.

  • Cons: Traffic delays possible; less scenic than trains.

  • Tip: Arrive 15 minutes early; included in Nghe An Coastal Tour ($65–$95).

• By Private Car or Taxi (Comfortable and Flexible):

  • Overview: Private cars or eco-friendly Xanh SM electric taxis offer door-to-door service via the Hanoi–Ninh Binh–Nghe An Expressway to Vinh Ward. Ideal for groups or luxury travelers.

  • Cost (Round-Trip): Private car: $80–$100 (2,000,000–2,500,000 VND) for 4 people; Xanh SM taxi: $140–$180 (3,500,000–4,500,000 VND).

  • Duration: 5–6 hours, depending on traffic.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Xanh SM taxis reduce emissions; carpooling lowers per-person footprint.

  • How to Book: Arrange via Legend Travel Group for private cars or Xanh SM app for taxis. Book 24–48 hours ahead.

  • Pros: Flexible schedule; comfortable; direct to destination.

  • Cons: More expensive; traffic-dependent.

  • Tip: Share with others to split costs; included in premium Nghe An tours ($90–$140).

• By Motorbike (Adventurous, Not Recommended for Novices):

  • Overview: Renting a motorbike for the 290 km journey via Highway 1A is an adventure for experienced riders, offering stops at local eateries and scenic spots. Not advised for first-time visitors due to chaotic traffic and legal restrictions.

  • Cost (Round-Trip): $14–$24 (350,000–600,000 VND) for rental (150,000–300,000 VND/day) + fuel ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Duration: 7–8 hours, depending on stops.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Use fuel-efficient bikes; avoid idling to reduce emissions.

  • How to Book: Rent via Bikesbooking or local shops in Hanoi. Requires a Vietnamese license or international permit.

  • Pros: Flexible; immersive experience; budget-friendly.

  • Cons: High risk; illegal without proper license; fines ($100–$200 or 2,500,000–5,000,000 VND); tiring.

  • Tip: Wear helmets, carry offline maps (Maps.me), and travel with a companion; not included in Legend Travel Group tours due to safety concerns.

From Ho Chi Minh City to Vinh Ward (950 km, 2–30 hours)

• By Flight (Fastest, Unavailable July–December 2025):

  • Overview: Flights from Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN) to Vinh Airport (VII), 10 km from Vinh Ward, take 1 hour 50 minutes, followed by a 15-minute taxi ride. Operated by Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, and Bamboo Airways.

  • Cost (Round-Trip): $60–$120 (1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), plus taxi ($3–$5 or 75,000–125,000 VND each way).

  • Duration: 1 hour 50 minutes flight + 15 minutes taxi (total ~2.5 hours).

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Choose fuel-efficient fleets; pair with Xanh SM taxis.

  • How to Book: Use airline apps or Legend Travel Group’s packages. Book 2–4 weeks ahead.

  • Pros: Fastest; comfortable; frequent flights.

  • Cons: Airport closure July–December 2025; higher cost; delays possible.

  • Tip: Confirm flight status; included in Nghe An Cultural Tour ($70–$100) when available.

• By Train (Scenic and Sustainable):

  • Overview: The Reunification Express runs from Saigon Station (1 Nguyễn Thông, Ward 9) to Vinh Station, offering soft seats, hard sleepers (6 berths), or soft sleepers (4 berths) for overnight comfort.

  • Cost (Round-Trip): $50–$100 (1,250,000–2,500,000 VND); soft seat: $50–$70; soft sleeper: $80–$100.

  • Duration: 26–30 hours (SE trains faster; TN trains slower).

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Lower carbon footprint; book soft sleepers for sustainability.

  • How to Book: Purchase via Vietnam Railways, Baolau, 12go.asia, or Legend Travel Group. Book 1–2 weeks ahead.

  • Pros: Scenic; affordable; restful for overnight travel.

  • Cons: Long duration; sleepers sell out during peak seasons.

  • Tip: Bring earplugs and a neck pillow; included in Nghe An Nature Tour ($80–$120).

• By Bus or Coach (Budget-Friendly):

  • Overview: Sleeper buses or VIP limousine coaches (9–12 seats) depart from Ho Chi Minh City’s Mien Dong Bus Station or Pham Ngu Lao to Vinh Ward. Operators like Hoang Long, Futabus, and TheSinh Tourist offer air-conditioned buses with reclining seats or bunk beds.

  • Cost (Round-Trip): $50–$80 (1,250,000–2,000,000 VND); regular sleeper: $50–$60; VIP limousine: $70–$80.

  • Duration: 28–30 hours, with restroom and meal stops.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Choose fuel-efficient buses; combine with walking tours in Vinh.

  • How to Book: Book via Baolau, 12go.asia, or bus stations. Legend Travel Group offers private tour buses. Book 1–2 days ahead.

  • Pros: Cheapest long-distance option; saves accommodation costs.

  • Cons: Long and tiring; motion sickness possible; cramped bunks for taller travelers.

  • Tip: Take ginger for motion sickness; book directly to avoid agency fees; included in Nghe An Coastal Tour ($65–$95).

• By Private Car or Taxi (Comfortable but Expensive):

  • Overview: Private cars or Xanh SM electric taxis offer door-to-door service via National Route 1A and the North-South Expressway. Ideal for groups but less common due to distance.

  • Cost (Round-Trip): Private car: $300–$400 (7,500,000–10,000,000 VND) for 4 people; Xanh SM taxi: $400–$500 (10,000,000–12,500,000 VND).

  • Duration: 20–24 hours, depending on stops and traffic.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Xanh SM taxis reduce emissions; carpooling lowers footprint.

  • How to Book: Arrange via Legend Travel Group or Xanh SM app. Book 24–48 hours ahead.

  • Pros: Flexible; comfortable; direct to destination.

  • Cons: Very expensive; long drive.

  • Tip: Split costs with a group; included in premium Nghe An tours ($90–$140).

From Hue to Vinh Ward (400 km, 7–9 hours)

• By Train:

  • Overview: The Reunification Express from Hue Station to Vinh Station offers soft seats or sleepers, passing scenic coastal routes.

  • Cost (Round-Trip): $25–$70 (625,000–1,750,000 VND); soft seat: $25–$40; soft sleeper: $50–$70.

  • Duration: 7–8 hours.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Trains are low-emission; book sleepers for comfort.

  • How to Book: Via Vietnam Railways, Baolau, or Legend Travel Group. Book 1–2 weeks ahead.

  • Pros: Scenic; affordable; central stations.

  • Cons: Slower than buses; sleepers sell out during holidays.

  • Tip: Book early for festivals; included in Nghe An Cultural Tour ($70–$100).

• By Bus:

  • Overview: Sleeper buses or limousines from Hue’s Southern Bus Station to Vinh Ward, operated by Hoang Long or TheSinh Tourist.

  • Cost (Round-Trip): $20–$35 (500,000–875,000 VND).

  • Duration: 7–9 hours, with stops.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Choose fuel-efficient buses; combine with cycling in Vinh.

  • How to Book: Via Baolau, 12go.asia, or bus stations. Book 1–2 days ahead.

  • Pros: Affordable; frequent departures.

  • Cons: Traffic delays; less comfortable than trains.

  • Tip: Choose VIP limousines for comfort; included in Nghe An Coastal Tour ($65–$95).

From Da Nang to Vinh Ward (470 km, 8–10 hours)

• By Train:

  • Overview: The Reunification Express from Da Nang Station to Vinh Station offers soft seats or sleepers, with coastal views.

  • Cost (Round-Trip): $30–$80 (750,000–2,000,000 VND); soft seat: $30–$45; soft sleeper: $60–$80.

  • Duration: 8–9 hours.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Low-emission option; book sleepers for sustainability.

  • How to Book: Via Vietnam Railways, Baolau, or Legend Travel Group. Book 1–2 weeks ahead.

  • Pros: Scenic; comfortable; central stations.

  • Cons: Longer than buses; sleepers sell out during peak seasons.

  • Tip: Bring snacks; included in Nghe An Cultural Tour ($70–$100).

• By Bus:

  • Overview: Sleeper buses or limousines from Da Nang’s Central Bus Station to Vinh Ward, operated by Hoang Long or Futabus.

  • Cost (Round-Trip): $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND).

  • Duration: 8–10 hours, with stops.

  • Eco-Friendly Note: Choose fuel-efficient buses; combine with walking tours.

  • How to Book: Via Baolau, 12go.asia, or bus stations. Book 1–2 days ahead.

  • Pros: Affordable; frequent departures.

  • Cons: Traffic delays; less comfortable than trains.

  • Tip: Book VIP limousines for extra space; included in Nghe An Coastal Tour ($65–$95).

Navigation and Safety Tips

• Navigation: Save “Vinh Ward, Nghe An” in offline maps (Maps.me); follow Highway 1A for road travel. Vinh Station and bus terminals are centrally located.

• Safety: Confirm fares with reputable taxi companies (Mai Linh, Vinasun); secure valuables on public transport. Avoid motorbikes unless experienced, as traffic is intense.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Prioritize trains or Xanh SM taxis; combine with cycling or walking tours in Nghe An.

• Tip: Purchase a Vietnamese SIM card ($8–$15 or 200,000–375,000 VND) for navigation and ride-hailing apps like Grab.

Upon arriving in Vinh Ward, explore these budget-friendly activities ($0.50–$35) to experience Nghe An’s culture and nature:

1. Visit Kim Lien Village

Explore Ho Chi Minh’s birthplace, best at 8:00 AM, for $3–$5 (75,000–125,000 VND), with a museum and historic homes.

• Cost: $3–$5.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walkable site; supports preservation.

• Tip: Included in Nghe An Cultural Tour ($70–$100).

2. Relax at Cua Lo Beach

Unwind at Cua Lo Ward’s sandy beach, best at 3:00 PM, for $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND), with seafood snacks.

• Cost: $0.50–$2.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use biodegradable packaging.

• Tip: Included in Nghe An Coastal Tour ($65–$95).

3. Trek Pu Mat National Park

Hike biodiverse trails, best at 7:00 AM, for $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND), spotting rare wildlife and waterfalls.

• Cost: $5–$10.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Guided trails protect ecosystems.

• Tip: Included in Pu Mat Nature Tour ($80–$120).

Pack these essentials for a sustainable trip:

• Clothing: Lightweight attire, sturdy hiking shoes; waterproof jacket ($4–$8 or 100,000–200,000 VND) for rainy season; modest attire for cultural sites.

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($4–$8), mosquito repellent ($0.80 or 20,000 VND), hand sanitizer ($0.80).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Vietmap/Maps.me, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($8–$15 or 200,000–375,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for snacks ($1–$4 or 25,000–100,000 VND); biodegradable wipes.

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

Transport Costs (Round-Trip)

• From Hanoi: Flight: $90–$150 (unavailable July–December 2025); Train: $20–$60; Bus: $16–$30; Private Car: $80–$100; Xanh SM Taxi: $140–$180; Motorbike: $14–$24 + fuel.

• From Ho Chi Minh City: Flight: $60–$120 + taxi ($6–$10); Train: $50–$100; Bus: $50–$80; Private Car: $300–$400.

• From Hue: Train: $25–$70; Bus: $20–$35.

• From Da Nang: Train: $30–$80; Bus: $25–$40.

Daily Costs in Nghe An (Per Person)

• Budget: $10–$25 (bus, beach, street food).

• Mid-range: $35–$60 (train, homestay, guided tour).

• Luxury: $80–$140 (private car, premium stay, nature tour).

• Tip: Carry cash (cards rarely accepted); budget for activities ($0.50–$10) and transport ($8–$180).

• Timing: Depart early (7:00–10:00 AM) for cooler travel; November–April for dry roads. Weekdays for fewer crowds (100–250 vs. 150–400 on weekends).

• Booking: Book trains and buses via Baolau or 12go.asia; reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead.

• Sustainability: Choose trains or Xanh SM taxis; support local vendors with snack purchases ($0.80–$3 or 20,000–75,000 VND).

• Safety: Secure belongings on public transport; avoid motorbikes without experience. Check weather for road conditions (AccuWeather).

• Cultural Respect: Greet locals with “xin chào”; dress modestly at cultural sites like Kim Lien Village.

Our eco-friendly tours include transport and activities:

• Nghe An Cultural Tour ($70–$100/person, 1 day): Train to Vinh, visit Kim Lien Village, Cuong Temple, local lunch ($3–$5). Includes guide, eco-transport.

• Nghe An Coastal Tour ($65–$95/person, 1 day): Bus to Cua Lo Beach, seafood dining, night market. Includes meals, guide.

• Pu Mat Nature Adventure ($80–$120/person, 2 days): Private car to Pu Mat, trek trails, homestay ($15–$30/night). Includes meals, guide.

• North-Central Vietnam Explorer ($350–$500/person, 4 days): Private car to Nghe An, Thanh Hoa, Ha Tinh, eco-stays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

• Prices include guides, eco-transports, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!

Nghe An, accessible via flights, trains, buses, or private cars from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue, and Da Nang, offers a gateway to Vietnam’s cultural and natural treasures. From the historic Kim Lien Village to the pristine Cua Lo Beach, its sustainable practices like eco-friendly transport and homestays ensure a responsible visit. Legend Travel Group’s Nghe An Tours make your journey seamless, eco-conscious, and immersive, ensuring you experience Nghe An’s heart responsibly. Whether enjoying a scenic train ride or a quick flight, Nghe An promises unforgettable adventures. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-journey today!
Ready to explore Nghe An? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group for an authentic adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group