Vietnam’s bus stations can be a whirlwind of activity, especially for first-time visitors. However, understanding the basics and knowing which terminal to use can make your journey smoother.
Expect large crowds, especially during peak travel times. This can make navigating the station challenging but also adds to the authentic local experience.
These are typically located in the main terminal building. Look for signs indicating destinations or ask for assistance. These areas can be crowded, so be prepared to stand or find a seat if available.
While basic amenities like toilets and food stalls are usually present, don’t expect high standards.
As with any crowded place, be aware of your belongings and keep an eye on your valuables.
Major Bus Stations in Vietnam
Lets check the major bus stations in Vietnam’s top cities – Ho Chi Minh and Ha Noi.
Ho Chi Minh City
Mien Dong Bus Station
Address : 292 Đ. Đinh Bộ Lĩnh, Phường 26, Bình Thạnh, Hồ Chí Minh 70000, Vietnam
Mien Dong Bus Station is Ho Chi Minh City’s primary bus station for routes to the central and northern regions of Vietnam. It’s a bustling hub with a wide range of bus operators offering different levels of service. While it can be overwhelming, it’s well-connected to the city and offers various amenities.
An Suong Bus Station
Address – QL22, Bà Điểm, Hóc Môn, Hồ Chí Minh, Vietnam
An Suong Bus station is a newer bus station in Ho Chi Minh City, aiming to alleviate congestion at the other terminals. It primarily serves long-distance routes and offers modern facilities, making it a more comfortable option for travelers.
Mien Tay Bus Station
Address – Western Bus Station, 395 Đ. Kinh Dương Vương, An Lạc, Bình Tân, Hồ Chí Minh 700000
Primarily serving the Mekong Delta region, Mien Tay is another key bus terminal in Ho Chi Minh City. Known for its relatively better organization and services compared to other stations, it’s a good option for those traveling to the southern provinces.
Hanoi
Giap Bat Bus Station
Address: Giai Phong Street, Hoang Mai District
Located in the eastern part of Hanoi, Giap Bat is a major hub for buses traveling to northern provinces. It’s a large and busy station, offering a variety of bus services. Buses depart for Haiphong and Nam Dinh every 30 minutes. For Nghe An, buses run hourly until 11:00 AM, while Ninh Binh offers hourly departures until 11:50 AM. Daily departures to Ho Chi Minh City are scheduled at 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 3:00 PM, 6:00 PM, and 8:00 PM.
My Dinh Bus Station
Address: Pham Hung Street, Nam Tu Liem District
A newer and more modern bus station in Hanoi, My Dinh primarily serves long-distance routes and intercity buses. It offers better facilities and a more organized environment compared to Giap Bat. Frequent bus services are available to several destinations from the bus station. My Dinh Bus Station is the main departure point for buses heading to the northern and northwestern regions of Vietnam. If you plan to cross the border into China, this is the station you’ll want to use. Additionally, My Dinh offers convenient connections between Hanoi, Sapa, and Halong Bay.
While these are the major ones, there are countless other bus terminals across Vietnam, especially in larger cities and provinces –
| City | Popular Bus Terminal |
| Da Nang | Da Nang Bus Station |
| Nha Trang | Nha Trang Central Bus Station |
| Hue | Hue Bus Station |
| Hoi An | Hoi An Bus Station (smaller, but serves local and regional routes) |
| Hai Phong | Hai Phong Bus Station |
| Ninh Binh | Ninh Binh Bus Station |
| Ha Long | Ha Long Bus Station |
| Sapa | Sapa Bus Station (smaller, serves local and regional routes) |
| Can Tho | Can Tho Bus Station |
| Phu Quoc | Phu Quoc Bus Station (primarily for inter-island travel) |
| Dalat | Dalat Bus Station |
| Ba Dinh | Kim Ma Bus Station |
Tips for Navigating Bus Stations in Vietnam
- Arrive early: Especially during peak travel times, it’s advisable to arrive at the bus station well in advance to secure your seat and avoid last-minute rushes.
- Learn basic Vietnamese phrases: Don’t worry if you don’t speak Vietnamese! Many ticket booths display destinations in both Vietnamese and English. Double-check the name of your desired location before purchasing your ticket. If unsure, simply show the booth worker the name of your destination written down or on your phone, or use Google Translate. A nod, a shake, or a pointing finger will usually guide you to the right booth.
- Choose your bus operator carefully : While local buses offer a cheaper option, they might be less comfortable. If you prefer a more comfortable journey, consider higher-end bus operators. Additionally you can check bus schedule and ticket prices online for Vietnam bus tickets booking.
- Carry a map or use GPS: Knowing the general location of your destination can be useful.
- Confirm your ticket details: Double-check the departure time, destination, and seat number.
- Be patient: Things might not always go according to plan. Embrace the experience!
By following these tips and understanding the layout of major bus stations, you can navigate your way through Vietnam’s bustling transportation hubs with confidence.